Israel Delays Release of Palestinian Prisoners Amid Hostage Exchange Tensions
Israel was set to release 110 Palestinian prisoners, but the process was hindered by a chaotic crowd during a hostage exchange aimed at reducing violence in the ongoing war with Hamas.
Israel was expected to release another 110 Palestinian prisoners, but the release faced delays due to a chaotic situation. A crowd of Palestinians surrounded and jeered at hostages as they were being handed over to the Red Cross.
The truce is intended to de-escalate the deadliest and most destructive war ever fought between Israel and Hamas, which was triggered by the October 7, 2023, attack into Israel. The truce has held firm despite a dispute earlier this week regarding the order of the hostages' release.
The first hostage, female Israeli soldier Agam Berger, was released in northern Gaza. Hours later, a tumultuous scene emerged as thousands of people congregated around a handover site in the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis, situated in front of the demolished home of slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
