Three Israeli Hostages Freed as Israel Releases 183 Palestinian Prisoners

Three Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza were released on Saturday in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners as part of an ongoing ceasefire agreement.

The freed hostages—Yarden Bibas (34), Ofer Kalderon (53), and Keith Siegel (65)—were handed over to the Red Cross, marking the latest exchange under the ceasefire deal. Their release was carried out in a more controlled and orderly manner compared to Thursday’s chaotic handover, which had raised safety concerns.

Meanwhile, Palestinian prisoners were transported in buses to Gaza and the West Bank, with many originating from Ofer Prison. The prisoners’ reception in Gaza was marked by a structured display, as lines of armed Hamas fighters maintained order and oversaw the handover. Released prisoners were flanked by masked gunmen, standing in front of banners bearing images of deceased Hamas leaders.

The exchange is part of continued negotiations brokered by international mediators, aiming to extend the ceasefire and secure the release of additional hostages. The humanitarian pause has allowed for a series of swaps, with Israel seeking the safe return of remaining hostages while Hamas aims to secure the release of more Palestinian detainees.