In the fifth phase of the ongoing ceasefire agreement, Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday, while Israel freed 183 Palestinian prisoners.

Exchange took place in Gaza’s Deir al-Balah with emotional scenes as families and friends welcomed the released detainees. Some freed Palestinians described their release as a “rebirth” while others embraced loved ones with tears and smiles.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a video message from U.S. reiterated his stance that Hamas cannot remain in Gaza. He warned of eliminating the group while also directing a special delegation to Qatar’s Doha to discuss the next phase of the truce.
Hamas has accused Israel of repeatedly violating the ceasefire terms making it difficult to sustain the agreement. Group emphasized its commitment to securing release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel for years.
Read more: Trump Announces US Plan to Rebuild War-Torn Gaza
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Prisoner exchange part of a broader effort to de-escalate tensions. But the path to lasting peace remains uncertain as both sides continue to navigate complex political and humanitarian challenges.