How many Israeli hostages are still held in Gaza? Six alive prisoners awaiting release in first phase of ceasefire
The process of releasing Israelis and other foreign nationals held by Hamas in Gaza is moving forward in stages. Under the terms of a six-week ceasefire that began on January 19, a total of 33 Israelis were to be released in the first phase. However, not all have been released, and the fate of many remains uncertain.
Phase 1 release update
According to the plan for the release of prisoners in the first phase of the ceasefire:
- A total of 33 Israelis were scheduled to be released.
- 19 people have been released so far.
- The remaining 14 are still awaiting release.
- Israel says 8 of these 14 people have died
- As a result, 6 surviving prisoners are still scheduled to be released in the first phase.
In addition, under a separate agreement with Hamas, Five Thai citizens have also been released..
How many prisoners are still left in Gaza?
Even after the first phase of the ceasefire, more than 70 prisoners still remain in Gaza, who were taken away by Hamas on October 7.
- Israeli authorities and international organizations believe that more than half of these 70 people are likely alive.
- There is no clear information about the fate of the rest, but many are feared dead.
Release process and future plans
Qatar, Egypt and the United States are mediating prisoner exchange talks between Hamas and Israel.
- This ceasefire is six Although it is expected to last a week, it is not yet entirely certain how exactly the terms of the prisoner exchange will be fulfilled.
- According to experts, the second round of talks after the first round of prisoner releases could be more difficult, as Hamas is likely to impose more conditions.
- Israel has made it clear that if Hamas violates the prisoner release agreement, it may resume military operations.
International reaction and concern
- The United Nations and other international human rights organizations are calling for the immediate release of the prisoners.
- The United States, the European Union, and other Western countries have suggested that the crisis should be resolved through a prolonged ceasefire and a prisoner exchange.
- However, the Israeli leadership claims that, if necessary, the situation in Gaza will be resolved through military control.
Where is the situation heading now?
Under the terms of the ceasefire, more prisoners are scheduled to be released in the second phase of the prisoner exchange. However, the situation is complicated, because:
- Hamas claims it will not release any more prisoners unless Israel extends ceasefire.
- Israeli forces are strategically monitoring the situation in Gaza and preparing for military action if necessary..
- Analysts say, If this ceasefire breaks down, renewed Israel-Hamas clashes could intensify..
Conclusion
The situation in Gaza remains tense, and much of the prisoner exchange talks depend on future diplomatic moves.
- Currently 6 surviving Israeli prisoners await release in first phase.
- More than 70 people are still being held in Gaza, half of whom are believed to be alive.
- If this prisoner exchange and ceasefire move forward successfully, it could create a possibility of reducing the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
However, if either side violates the agreement, the conflict could escalate, further exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
