The Israeli military has confirmed the release of 20 living hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. The hostages, who were among the 251 people abducted during a Palestinian attack on southern Israel in October 2023, have returned to Israel. Prior to their release, some hostages are believed to have been killed.
Twelve of the released hostages include twin brothers Gali and Ziv Berman, who were kidnapped from a kibbutz along with Emily Damari. The twins’ family had previously received word that they were still alive after other released hostages shared their stories.
Ariel Cunio, 28, was also among the released hostages, having been abducted during the same attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz. His partner Arbel Yehud was freed in January 2025 as part of a ceasefire deal.
Other hostages who were released include David Cunio, 35, Sharon Aloni Cunio and their twin daughters Ema and Yuly; Avinatan Or, his girlfriend Noa Argamani; Matan Angrest, an IDF soldier suffering from chronic asthma; Ilana Gritzewsky, Matan’s partner; and Nimrod Cohen, who was serving as an IDF soldier.
Hamas released several videos showing the hostages in captivity, detailing their living conditions and health issues. The release of these hostages marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Source: www.bbc.com
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