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Hamas has released a kidnapped Israeli soldier and plans to free seven other hostages.
Palestinian Hamas militants release female Israeli soldier Agam Berger, held in Gaza since the deadly October 7 2023 attack, as part of a ceasefire and a hostages-prisoners swap deal between Hamas and Israel, in Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip. (IMAGE: REUTERS)
Hamas handed over captive female Israeli soldier Agam Berger over to the Red Cross in the Gaza Strip on Thursday, news agencies reported.
Berger, a 20-year-old soldier, was taken on stage by armed Hamas militants before she was handed over to the Red Cross.
“The returning hostage has just been transferred to IDF and ISA forces in the Gaza Strip. The returning hostage is currently being accompanied by IDF special forces and ISA forces on her return to Israeli territory, where she will undergo an initial medical assessment. The commanders and soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces salute and embrace the returning hostage as she makes her way home to the state of Israel,” the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) said in a statement.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the government of Israel remains committed to the return of the hostages.
“The Israeli government embraces Agam Berger, an Israel Defense Forces soldier. The Israeli government is committed to the return of all abducted and missing persons,” the statement said.
