Hamas announces names of Israeli hostages to be released on Saturday
On Friday, February 7, 2025, Hamas revealed the names of three Israeli hostages who are set to be released on Saturday in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. This announcement comes after a delay, highlighting the challenges in the fragile deal aimed at ending the war in Gaza.
The hostages to be released include Ohad Ben Ami and Eli Sharabi, both taken from Kibbutz Be’eri during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, as well as Or Levy, who was abducted from the Nova music festival on the same day.
According to Hamas, Israel is expected to release 183 Palestinian prisoners in return, including 18 who are serving life sentences, 54 who have long sentences, and 111 who were detained in Gaza during the conflict.
Earlier, Hamas had accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement, delaying the announcement of the hostages’ names until after a 4 p.m. (1400 GMT) deadline had passed. It remains unclear if this delay will affect the planned exchange on Saturday.
Hamas also criticized Israel for holding up hundreds of trucks carrying essential food and humanitarian supplies, as well as withholding the tents and mobile homes needed for sheltering people returning to their damaged homes. “This demonstrates clear manipulation of relief and shelter priorities,” Hamas stated.
