Three male hostages have been safely released from Hamas captivity in Gaza, marking a significant moment in the fragile ceasefire agreement established between Israel and Hamas last month. Among those freed is Keith Siegel, an American-Israeli citizen, who was handed over to the Red Cross and is currently en route to Israel. His return is a beacon of hope for families of other hostages still awaiting reunification with their loved ones.
The release of Siegel comes as part of a broader deal that includes the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, many held without charges. The situation remains tense, as approximately 50 sick patients, including numerous children, are expected to cross from Gaza to Egypt for medical treatment. This operation will be conducted in buses and ambulances, with Egyptian medical teams prepared to receive them at the border.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that Siegel crossed into Israeli territory and is being escorted by military personnel. The family of Yarden Bibas, another hostage who was kidnapped from kibbutz Nir Oz, has been informed that he is also in Israel. Bibas was taken along with his wife Shiri and their two sons, Kfir and Ariel, who may not have survived, according to a spokesperson for the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.
Ofer Kalderon, another hostage released from the same kibbutz, has been reunited with his family in Israel. Kalderon was abducted alongside his son Erez and daughter Sahar, both of whom were released during the ceasefire. The release operations are being closely monitored due to previous incidents, including a chaotic handover in Khan Younis earlier this week.
The ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas are crucial, as they involve a delicate balance of hostages and prisoner releases. The current agreement stipulates the release of 183 Palestinian prisoners, including several individuals serving life sentences, as well as those detained in the Gaza Strip after the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023.
In a statement reflecting their relief, the family of Keith Siegel expressed gratitude for his return.
“Thank you, President Trump, for bringing our father back to us.” – The family of Keith Siegel
They further stated their hope for the remaining hostages waiting for their turn to return home.
“There are now 79 hostages who are also waiting to be reunited with their loved ones. Our hope rests with you.” – The family of Keith Siegel
After an agonizing wait of 484 days, they shared their feelings of relief.
“Finally, after 484 long, terrifying days and nights, full of immense worry for our father, we can breathe again.” – The family of Keith Siegel
Dr. Munir Al-Barash highlighted the urgency of medical evacuations for sick children in Gaza, stating:
“We sent 400 names of sick children to the World Health Organization.”
As the situation develops, experts note that Hamas appears to have learned from past experiences that led to chaotic scenes when hostages were released. Gershon Baskin commented on this new understanding:
“It’s noteworthy that Hamas learned the lesson from last Thursday of the chaos we had seen when the hostages were released in Khan Younis to crowds that endangered the lives of the hostages.”
International leaders continue to advocate for the release of hostages still held by Hamas. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his thoughts on the ongoing situation:
“We think of Ohad Yahalomi, still in the hands of Hamas, and his family. France is doing everything possible to achieve his release without delay.”
The joy surrounding Siegel’s release was palpable among his family members. Aviva Siegel shared her excitement:
“The big day is here! Yeyyy Shirkush I’m happy. Happy.”
She added:
“There’s no one happier than me. I’m ready with all the things.”
Emmanuel Macron also echoed sentiments of relief regarding Ofer Kalderon’s return:
“Ofer Kalderon is free! We share the immense relief and joy of his loved ones after 483 days of unimaginable hell.”
The IDF provided further details about Siegel’s release:
“A short while ago, the returning civilian hostage, Keith Siegel, crossed the border into Israeli territory accompanied by IDF and ISA forces. He is currently on his way to an initial reception point in southern Israel, where he will be reunited with members of his family.”
The Israeli government has welcomed the returning hostages. A statement from the Prime Minister’s Office confirmed:
“The Government of Israel embraces the two returnees. Their families have been informed by the relevant authorities that they have joined our forces.”
