Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for three hostages

Israel on Sunday released 90 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for three hostages held in Gaza by militant group Hamas as part of a ceasefire deal that began earlier in the day, The Times of Israel reported.

The ceasefire, pausing the conflict that started 15 months ago, took effect at 11.15 am local time on Sunday, or 2.45 pm as per Indian Standard Time, after a nearly three-hour delay.

The three hostages released by Hamas were Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari. The militant group handed them over to humanitarian organisation Red Cross on a Gaza City street.

The women were taken to the Israeli forces who took them back to Israel. Photos and videos shared by the Israeli government showed that they had reunited with their families.

After 471 horrific days in captivity, Emily, Doron and Romi are finally reunited with their families.

This is a moment we will never ever forget. pic.twitter.com/iATpoqgSTW

— Israel ישראל (@Israel) January 19, 2025

The prisoners who were released included women, several minors and men sentenced for offences such as disorderly conduct. Seventy-eight of them are residents of the West Bank and the 12 others are from East Jerusalem.

Nearly 2,000 inmates are expected to be released during the first phase of the ceasefire deal, The Times of Israel reported.

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