Israel-Hamas Prisoner Exchange: 3 Israelis Released in Exchange for 369 Palestinians
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World
February 16, 2025 05:30
gaza, west bank - The 6th round of prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas took place, with 3 Israelis and 369 Palestinians released.
Prisoner Exchange Between Israel and Hamas
In a significant development, 3 Israeli hostages were released in exchange for 369 Palestinian prisoners as part of the ceasefire agreement. The exchange, which is the 6th round since the ceasefire came into effect on January 19, took place near the home of a deceased Hamas leader in Khan Yunus.
Released Prisoners and Reactions
The 3 Israeli captives were handed over to the Red Cross, bringing the total number of released Israeli prisoners to 19. On the other side, 369 Palestinian detainees regained their freedom. Among them, Ahmed Barguti, a prominent figure in the Palestinian resistance, stood out. Barguti, a cousin and deputy of imprisoned Fatah Movement leader Marwan Barghouti, was sentenced to life imprisonment by Israeli courts for his role in the Second Intifada.
Continuation of Negotiations
Hamas announced that the second phase of ceasefire negotiations will commence soon, with mediators working towards the release of 33 more Israeli hostages. The negotiations follow the 42-day first phase, during which 251 hostages were taken, with 70 still in Gaza.
Escalating Violence in the West Bank
Meanwhile, Israel's military operations in the West Bank have led to increased violence, resulting in the deaths of several Palestinians. Reports indicate that 44 people, including a pregnant woman, were killed in the ongoing military incursion.