M31GlobalNews, Jerusalem — On Saturday, Israel is preparing for the release of four female soldiers who were held hostage by Hamas. The militant group announced that it intends to release Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag as part of an ongoing ceasefire agreement.
The families of the four women have been informed, and the Israeli government has decided to proceed with the release, despite earlier expectations that Arbel Yehud, a civilian hostage, would be included. Yehud, who is believed to be held by another group, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, was excluded from the list provided by Hamas.
The Ceasefire Agreement
Hamas confirmed that the release of the four hostages is part of a larger ceasefire deal. Under the terms, Israel has agreed to release 50 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for each female hostage. On Saturday, Hamas expects the release of around 200 Palestinian prisoners, including those serving life sentences.
As of Friday evening, Israel’s Justice Ministry had not disclosed how many or which Palestinian prisoners would be freed. The exchange is part of a broader effort to de-escalate tensions, with more hostages and prisoners expected to be released in the coming weeks.
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Background on the Hostages
The four soldiers slated for release were among seven female soldiers abducted from the Nahal Oz military base during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack.
- Ori Megidish, one of the seven, was rescued by the IDF on October 30, 2023.
- Noa Marciano, another soldier, was killed in Gaza, with her body recovered on November 17, 2023.
- Agam Berger, the fifth soldier, remains in captivity and is not part of this release.
Footage of the soldiers’ abduction and captivity has symbolized the brutality of the October 7 attack. Some of the women appeared in Hamas propaganda videos, pleading for their lives. Their families have fought tirelessly for their release, and their return is being anxiously awaited by the entire nation.
Who Are the Soldiers Being Released?
The four young women were all serving in the IDF as part of their compulsory military service.
- Liri Albag, the youngest at 18 when captured, is described as someone who radiates joy and has a passion for singing, photography, and cooking. Her dream was to study interior design in Paris.
- Karina Ariev, now 20, is from Jerusalem and enjoys dancing, writing, and cooking. She aspires to be a psychologist and is known for her compassion and warmth.
- Daniella Gilboa, also 20, is a talented musician who plays piano and sings. She hopes to pursue a professional career in music and is admired for her optimism.
- Naama Levy, 20, is described as quiet but strong, with a love for triathlons and tennis. She participated in peace-building initiatives, including the Hands of Peace project.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said the release marks a significant moment for the nation, with families and communities eagerly awaiting their return.
Looking Ahead
This release is part of the initial phase of a ceasefire agreement expected to last five more weeks. Under the deal, 30 Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners will be freed during this period. Israeli forces will also withdraw from certain areas of Gaza, and humanitarian aid to the region will increase.
While this marks a hopeful step, Hamas and its allies still hold 91 hostages from the October 7 attack, along with three additional captives who have been held since 2014. Israel has vowed to continue efforts to bring all captives home.
Stay tuned to M31GlobalNews for updates on the ceasefire agreement and ongoing hostage negotiations.
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