Israeli Soldier Released in Latest Ceasefire and Captive Exchange with Hamas

Agam Berger, an Israeli female soldier held captive by Hamas, was released on Thursday as part of the third phase of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between Israel and the militant group, Al Jazeera reports.

Berger emerged from the rubble of the Jabalia refugee camp, a location that has faced heavy bombardment by Israeli forces since the conflict escalated in October 2023. She was the first of eight captives set to be released on this day, which also includes five Thai nationals.

The intricate exchange is taking place at various locations across Gaza, notably outside the former residence of Yahya Sinwar, a prominent Hamas leader, in Khan Younis. In return for the released captives, Israel is scheduled to free 110 Palestinians currently imprisoned in its jails.

This latest exchange follows a previous release last Saturday when four female Israeli soldiers were freed, coinciding with the release of 200 Palestinians from Israeli custody, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict that has persisted for over 15 months.