After 484 Days in Hamas Captivity, Three Hostages Released on Shabbos
After 484 days in captivity by the Hamas terror organization, hostages Yarden Bibas, Ofer Kalderon, and Keith Siegel were freed on Shabbos as part of the fourth phase of Israel’s hostage deal with Hamas • Read More
Ofer and Yarden were handed over by the ruthless terror group to Red Cross vehicles in Khan Younis on Shabbos morning before being transferred to IDF forces. They were then taken to a reception point in Re’im, where Yarden Bibas was reunited with his father and sister.
Approximately two hours later, Keith Siegel was released from Gaza’s port. He briefly stood on his feet on stage, wearing a cap, and waved to the crowd. He was later transferred to IDF forces and crossed into Israel, where he was expected to reunite with his wife, who also survived captivity.
“The commanders and soldiers of the IDF salute and embrace the returning hostages on their way home,” the IDF spokesperson said following the release of Kalderon and Bibas. “We urge the public to act responsibly and sensitively, and to respect the privacy of the returnees. The IDF remains prepared for the reception of an additional hostage soon.”
The Prime Minister’s Office released a statement, saying: “The Government of Israel embraces the two returnees. Their families have been updated by the relevant authorities that they have rejoined our forces. The government, together with all security agencies, will accompany them and their families.”
Israel Releases 183 Terrorists in Exchange
Following the release of Yarden Bibas, Ofer Kalderon, and Keith Siegel, Israel freed 183 convicted terrorists on Shabbos as part of the deal with Hamas.
Of these, 143 were transferred to Gaza from Ketziot Prison in the Negev, and eight were deported to Egypt. Additionally, 32 were released to Judea and Samaria from Ofer Prison, where they were met with celebratory gatherings in Ramallah.
Among the released terrorists were 18 serving life sentences and 54 serving long prison terms. An additional 111 were Gazan terrorists captured during the war. As part of the Israel-Hamas agreement, a total of approximately 1,000 Hamas prisoners captured since the October 7 massacre are set to be released.
With today’s release, the total number of terrorists freed by Israel as part of the deal now stands at 583.
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