Hamas announced on Thursday the release of eight hostages, consisting of five Thai agricultural workers and three dual German-Israeli nationals, in a prisoner swap for 110 Palestinian detainees held in Israeli custody. This event marked the third wave of exchanges amid an ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which has now lasted for two weeks. The chaotic scene, where armed fighters escorted the Israeli hostages through a throng of thousands, led Israeli officials to temporarily postpone the release of Palestinian prisoners, illustrating the delicate nature of the current cessation of hostilities. Additionally, Hamas confirmed that Israeli airstrikes had killed Mohammed Deif, the leader of its military wing, last year. Deif was suspected of being one of the main orchestrators of the October 7 attack that ignited the recent conflict in Gaza.
In Washington, President Donald Trump refrained from confirming whether he would withdraw U.S. troops from Syria. When pressed by reporters on the topic, he stated that a decision would be made soon, expressing a belief that the situation in Syria is chaotic enough without further American involvement. The Pentagon previously acknowledged that troop numbers in Syria had grown to about 2,000, exceeding an earlier estimate of approximately 900. Ongoing friction exists between the U.S. and neighboring countries, particularly Turkey and Iraq, regarding the presence of American forces, while Israel has emphasized the importance of maintaining U.S. engagement in Syria.
The U.N. agency dedicated to assisting Palestinian refugees continues its operations in the West Bank, Gaza, and East Jerusalem despite Israel’s recent ban on contact with the agency. Schools and clinics managed by the U.N. Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) remained operational, and aid deliveries in Gaza saw no immediate alterations. A spokesperson indicated that the UNRWA headquarters in East Jerusalem appealed to requirements from Israel but continued to fly the U.N. flag, albeit with minimal remaining staff.
Trump persists in advocating for Arab nations, such as Egypt and Jordan, to accept Palestinian refugees from Gaza, despite vocal rejections from both countries’ leadership. He expresses confidence that they will eventually comply, highlighting the American leverage over these allies due to U.S. financial support. The idea of resettling a significant portion of Gaza’s displaced population remains controversial, as human rights advocates have accused Israel of policies resembling ethnic cleansing through violent means.
In Syria, interim President Ahmad al-Sharaa announced that a committee would soon be implemented to initiate a national dialogue concerning the country’s political future, which includes establishing an interim legislative council following the dissolution of the existing parliament. The specifics of the participants in this dialogue remain unclear, but it aims to pave the way towards new governance and elections after a recent insurgency removed President Bashar Assad from power.
In the West Bank, the Israeli military reported the death of Staff Sgt. Liam Hazi during military operations in the Jenin refugee camp, noted for being a base for Palestinian militants. The escalating Israeli military actions have led to at least 28 Palestinian fatalities reported amid the crackdown.
Following the hostage exchanges, scenes of celebration erupted among families reuniting with loved ones returned from prison. Enthusiastic supporters joyous welcomed released detainees, especially Zakaria Zubeidi, a notable former militant and theater director, who returned to cheers from the crowd. Health assessments were conducted on the released prisoners, with rights organizations indicating increasingly dire conditions in Israeli detention facilities.
Hamas confirmed the demise of key military figure Mohammed Deif and four other operatives, acknowledging their deaths several months after they were reported. Deif’s long-standing evasion of capture made him a significant symbol within Hamas, which continues to demonstrate its influence and governance in Gaza despite Israeli military operations aimed at weakening its hold.
In Cairo, a senior Hamas official emphasized that the group will retain governance over Gaza until a viable Palestinian alternative emerges. According to this official, the 12-day ceasefire gives Hamas confidence that their position remains intact, asserting that Israel has failed to meet objectives of dismantling the organization.
As the second phase of the ceasefire negotiations approaches, Hamas remains cautiously optimistic but wary of potential ruptures should Israel choose to suspend talks. The second phase, pending agreement, is anticipated to include the release of all remaining hostages in return for a comprehensive withdrawal of Israeli forces.
In Israel’s healthcare facilities, five released Thai hostages were met with relief and support. Medical staff expressed gratitude for their safe return while noting the need for continued care due to their extended captivity. The near-familial ties maintained by the Thai ambassador and their families underscored the emotional atmosphere as connections were reestablished through emotional video calls.
Meanwhile, conflicts broke out around Ofer Prison in the West Bank as relatives greeted newly released prisoners, prompting inflammatory interactions with Israeli soldiers who used tear gas and other means to disperse the crowds. Amidst this, Netanyahu’s administration scrutinized the chaotic conditions during hostage exchanges and took steps to ensure future transfers occur without disruption.
Continuing developments emphasize a complex and deeply entrenched conflict marked by negotiations, geopolitical dynamics, and humanitarian crises, reflecting the ongoing struggles of both the Israeli and Palestinian populations amidst their turbulent history.
