A notable figure among those scheduled for release is Ahmad Barghouti, a life-term prisoner who previously served as an assistant to Marwan Barghouti, who continues to serve his sentence in Israeli custody.
"When the war intensified, the terorrists treated me even worse than ususal – they kicked me, spat on me, and held me with no water, no light, and no air to breathe," Israeli-American Keith Seigel, who was released after 484 days said.
After tense week of negotiations, Hamas confirms the names of the hostages to be released Saturday.
Hamas has declared that eight of the 17 remaining hostages of Phase 1 did not survive captivity.
The terrorist organization has claimed that both parties have committed to the ceasefire agreement, while Israeli sources involved in the negotiations claim no consensus has been reached.
Sharabi was released from Hamas captivity after 494 days. His wife, two daughters, and brother were murdered in the October 7 massacre, and his home in Kibbutz Be'eri was destroyed. Today, he marks his birthday, and his family and friends are raising one million shekels for him through a 24-hour crowdfunding campaign in support of his recovery.
“We met saving lives,” Matanel said. “And now, we get to build a life together.”
Arab sources report positive progress in negotiations; Netanyahu scheduled a situational assessment at the IDF's Southern Command.
A senior security source states that Israel is "taking every threat with the utmost seriousness," adding that if fighting resumes, Israel will receive a continuous supply of munitions without humanitarian aid commitments.
In an unprecedented move highlighting the pressing plight of Israeli hostages, four of Israel's most distinguished scientists – including three Nobel laureates – have appealed directly to former President Donald Trump, warning that time is running out.
