Special Poll
The Trump administration issued a statement on Saturday in response to the release of four Israeli female hostages amid a temporary ceasefire between Israel and the militant group Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The statement emphasized the administration’s involvement in the negotiations.
“Today, the world celebrates as President Trump secured the release of four more Israeli hostages who had been held by Hamas in appalling conditions for far too long,” the White House declared.
The administration further reiterated its commitment to supporting Israel: “The United States will continue working closely with our great partner, Israel, to advocate for the release of all remaining hostages and to pursue lasting peace in the region.”
The release occurred as part of a recent ceasefire agreement that began less than a week ago. In this phase of the deal, Israel secured the release of Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag in exchange for the release of 70 Palestinian prisoners. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced that the women would undergo medical evaluations upon returning to Israel before reuniting with their families.
This release follows months of intense negotiations between Israel and Hamas, mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. The initial phase of the agreement includes a six-week ceasefire, during which Hamas has agreed to release 33 hostages, including women, children, the elderly, and the sick.
The agreement provides hope that additional hostages, including male civilians and soldiers, may be freed in subsequent phases, potentially easing tensions after months of conflict that escalated with Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.