WEB DESK
In a major development, Israel has released 110 Palestinian prisoners as part of the next phase in the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. The process was initially delayed after crowds surged at one of the hostage handover points. However, the release was celebrated largely in Gaza and West Bank.
Earlier, 8 hostages, including 3 Israelis and 5 Thai nationals in Gaza were released after 15 months in captivity. The 5 Thai nationals- Thenna Pongsak, Sathian Suwannakham, Sriaoun Watchara, Seathao Bannawat, and Rumnao Surasak- were taken to the Shamir Medical Center-Asaf Harofeh and were welcomed by the Thai Ambassador to Israel Pannabha Chandraramya and the medical staff. In a social media post, the Israel Defense Forces welcomed the return of hostages and said that it remains committed to bringing back all remaining hostages that are still held in Gaza. Earlier, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu alleged violations of the agreement, citing shocking scenes during the release of Israeli hostages.