Amid a volatile scene in Khan Younis on January 30, 2025, 29-year-old Israeli hostage Arbel Yehoud was handed over to the Red Cross. Footage broadcast by Israel’s Channel 12 depicted Yehoud navigating through a dense, jeering crowd, flanked by armed militants. The chaotic environment saw onlookers pushing forward, many attempting to capture photographs of the visibly distressed Yehoud.
Yehoud, abducted from her home in Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, had been held by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. Her release was part of a broader ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Egypt and Qatar. This agreement, effective from January 19, 2025, aims to facilitate the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
Alongside Yehoud, 80-year-old Gadi Mozes and five Thai nationals were also freed. The exchange involved Israel releasing 110 Palestinian security prisoners—30 for each civilian and 50 for soldier Agam Berger, who was also released earlier that day.
The tumultuous nature of Yehoud’s release has drawn criticism. Israel has conveyed its displeasure to mediators regarding the disorderly handover, emphasizing the need for more controlled and secure transfer processes in future exchanges.
