Ramallah, West Bank — In the early hours of Monday, Israel released 90 Palestinian prisoners from Ofer Prison, west of Ramallah. This significant move comes just hours after three Israeli hostages returned home following their release from Hamas captivity in Gaza.
Witnesses and local Palestinian sources reported that several buses departed Ofer Prison around 1 a.m., after finalizing the verification of the prisoners’ identities. The Hamas-affiliated Prisoners’ Media Office confirmed the commencement of the release process once the agreement on the lists was reached.
The released prisoners, including women and minors under 18 from East Jerusalem, were transported by buses from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to areas controlled by the Palestinian Authority. Hundreds of Palestinians, alongside families eagerly awaiting their loved ones, gathered near the prison to welcome the released individuals.
The atmosphere around the prison was charged, with heightened tensions leading to confrontations. Israeli forces dispersed the crowd using tear gas, and reports indicate that several journalists and Palestinian citizens were affected during the commotion.
This prisoner release is part of the recently agreed Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which took effect on Sunday. The exchange aims to alleviate ongoing tensions and is seen as a hopeful step toward peace in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
