Israeli Soldier Agam Berger Freed in Gaza Swap

According to the reports on Thursday (30 January), Hamas has released Israeli soldier Agam Berger in a new prisoner exchange in northern Gaza’s Jabalia area. The handover took place around 10 a.m. (local time), with Red Cross officials present to receive her. This exchange is part of ongoing negotiations amid a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

In return, Israel is releasing 110 Palestinian prisoners, including 20 who will be deported outside Palestinian territories. The exchange also includes two other Israeli hostages: 29-year-old Arbel Yehoud and 80-year-old Gadi Moses. Additionally, five Thai farm workers are being freed from Gaza and are expected to receive medical treatment in Israel.

This prisoner swap adds to previous exchanges since the ceasefire began on January 19. So far, three Israeli civilians and four female soldiers have been freed, while Israel has released 290 Palestinian detainees. More than 250 people were taken hostage during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, and nearly half were released in a prior truce.

Israel estimates that 90 hostages remain in Gaza, with around 30 declared dead in absentia. Meanwhile, negotiations are ongoing in Egypt to extend the current six-week ceasefire. The situation remains tense as both sides navigate diplomatic efforts to secure further releases and a potential long-term resolution.

References

• Israeli Soldier Agam Berger Released as New Gaza Prisoner Swap Begins