Gaza: In a significant step toward implementing the ongoing ceasefire agreement with Israel, the Palestinian group Hamas on Monday released the names of 20 Israeli hostages slated for release in the first phase of the agreement. This announcement comes as international mediators, including U.S. President Donald Trump, oversee efforts to facilitate a prisoner exchange and humanitarian truce after two years of intense conflict.
The published list includes: Bar Abraham Kupershtein, Evyatar David, Yosef-Chaim Ohana, Segev Kalfon, Avinatan Or, Elkana Bohbot, Maxim Herkin, Nimrod Cohen, Matan Angrest, Matan Zangauker, Eitan Horn, Eitan Abraham Mor, Gali Berman, Ziv Berman, Omri Miran, Alon Ohel, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Rom Braslavski, Ariel Cunio, and David Cunio.
The release of these names is expected to precede the actual handover of hostages, coordinated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which will ensure their safe transfer from Gaza to Israeli authorities. Once in Israel, the hostages are anticipated to be reunited with their families and transported to medical facilities for evaluation and care.
This disclosure represents not only a humanitarian milestone in the ongoing Gaza conflict but also a symbolic step toward de-escalation, highlighting the role of diplomatic mediation in safeguarding lives amid regional instability.
The international community continues to monitor developments closely, as the successful release of hostages could pave the way for broader peace talks and stabilization efforts in the region.