Hamas has released the names of the four female Israeli soldiers who will be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners on Saturday.
This exchange marks the second of its kind, following the first two phases of a three-stage ceasefire agreed upon earlier this month.
The soldiers, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, were captured during Hamas-led attacks on army outposts in southern Israel on October 7, 2023. They are set to be exchanged for 200 Palestinian prisoners as part of the first phase of the ceasefire that started on Sunday.
Israel agreed to release 50 Palestinian prisoners for each soldier held in Gaza and 30 for other female captives during this phase. Negotiations for the second phase of the agreement, which will facilitate the release of the remaining captives, are scheduled to begin on February 4.
The third phase of the ceasefire will focus on rebuilding and governing Gaza.
What do we know about the female Israeli soldiers set to be released?
Among the soldiers, Ariev, Gilboa, Levy, and Albag, 20-year-old Berger will remain in captivity if the exchange proceeds as planned. Three other female soldiers were released in the initial exchange.
What was the response to the first prisoner exchange?
The release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails drew mixed reactions.
In the West Bank, people celebrated as 90 prisoners were released, including women and children. However, some Israelis expressed anger and resentment over what they viewed as a defeat in the conflict with Gaza.
Why did Israeli forces order Palestinians not to celebrate the releases?
Israeli authorities were concerned about the optics of public celebrations following the releases.
Reports emerged of police removing signs, flags, and sweets from homes of released prisoners and warning family members against organizing celebrations. Released prisoners were also instructed not to comment on social media or grant media interviews.
Israeli forces aimed to avoid framing the exchange as a victory for the prisoners.
What have Palestinian prisoners been arrested for?
Palestinians are routinely arrested by Israeli forces for various infractions, no matter how minor.
According to reports, a significant percentage of male Palestinians have been arrested at some point by Israeli authorities. Currently, over 10,000 Palestinians are incarcerated by Israel, with many held under administrative detention without charge.
What sort of conditions are Palestinian prisoners held in?
Palestinian prisoners endure dire conditions in Israeli jails, as reported by various rights groups.
Reports of mistreatment, including physical and psychological abuse, have raised concerns. The Israeli prison system has faced criticism for its treatment of Palestinian detainees, with instances of rape and other forms of violence reported.
