Hamas and Israel Exchange The Third Group of Hostages

Washington D.C. – January 30, 2025 – Today, Israeli-German citizens Gadi Moses and Arbel Yehud were released as part of the third group of hostages freed under the first phase of the ceasefire agreement with Israel. Agam Berger, an Israeli soldier, was also freed. In return, Israeli authorities released 110 Palestinian prisoners. Of those, 32 were sentenced to life imprisonment, and another 30 are children, according to Hamas. In addition, 5 Thai nationals were also freed in an independent agreement between Hamas and the Thai Government.

Gadi Moses and Arbel Yehud were kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023, while Agam Berger was taken from the Nahal Oz military base.

Watchara Sriuan, Bannawat Seatho, Sathian Suwannakham, Pongsak Tanna, and Surasak Lamnau were kidnapped in southern Israel where they had been working in agriculture.

“The safe return of these hostages brings hope for the many others still awaiting their freedom,” said Hostage Aid President Nizar Zakka. “These releases are a testament to the tireless efforts of all those involved in this process.”

Hostage Aid Worldwide continues to urge all parties to maintain diplomatic pressure to ensure the implementation of all phases of the agreement.

 

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