Three Gaza Hostages, Including American, Released in Ceasefire Deal [Video]

Three male hostages, including an American Israeli citizen, held in Gaza for roughly 16 months were freed by Hamas on Saturday in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.

The names of the released hostages are Keith Siegel, Yarden Bibas and Ofer Kalderon. Siegel, the American Israeli, was described by the Associated Press as looking pale and thin upon his release.

Why It Matters

The release marks the fourth hostage exchange since the Israel-Hamas ceasefire took effect, bringing renewed attention to the humanitarian crisis and the ongoing efforts to secure the freedom of those still in captivity. The development highlights the fragile nature of the truce and the high-stakes negotiations surrounding the remaining hostages.

What To Know

Hamas, a Palestinian militant group, took roughly 250 hostages during its surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Over 100 hostages were released during a temporary ceasefire in November 2023. Meanwhile, about 1,200 people were killed in Hamas’ …