Hostage Handover Turns Chaotic in Khan Yunis
In a dramatic and disorderly exchange, Hamas and Islamic Jihad fighters struggled to contain a massive crowd during the release of eight hostages in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza, on Thursday. The released individuals included two Israeli citizens and five Thai nationals.
As the transfer unfolded, hundreds of onlookers surged forward, attempting to capture the moment on their phones. Among those released were 80-year-old Israeli-German citizen Gadi Moses and 29-year-old Israeli woman Arbel Yehud, who appeared visibly distressed as masked militants, clad in body armor and carrying automatic weapons, attempted to clear a path for her.
The five Thai hostages were identified as Watchara Sriaoun, Pongsak Tanna, Sathian Suwannakham, Surasak Lamnau, and Bannawat Saethao. The transfer was facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), with hostages being placed in Red Cross vehicles and escorted away from the chaotic scene.
Israeli Prime Minister Condemns the Handover Scenes
Following the release, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu strongly criticized the manner in which the exchange took place, calling it “shocking.” In a statement, he declared, This is yet another proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hamas terrorist organization. Whoever dares to harm our hostages will pay the price.
Crowds Gather to Witness the Exchange
Hundreds of Palestinians assembled near the childhood home of slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, eager to witness the moment. Some climbed over the wreckage of bombed buildings to catch a glimpse of the released hostages. Mohammed Al-Astal, a 32-year-old local, expressed pride in Hamas’s efforts, stating, The resistance preserved the lives of the prisoners throughout the days of the occupation’s war of extermination.
Sources within Hamas and Islamic Jihad reported that over 100 Islamic Jihad fighters were deployed in Khan Yunis to maintain order during the transfer.
More Organized Exchange in Northern Gaza
In contrast to the tumultuous Khan Yunis exchange, a separate hostage handover in Jabalia, northern Gaza, proceeded with more organization. Israeli soldier Agam Berger, dressed in green military fatigues, was handed over to the ICRC on a makeshift stage flanked by Hamas fighters, whose faces remained concealed behind masks.
Berger, 20, received a gift bag and a framed certificate marking her release. She maintained a composed expression but briefly waved to the crowd when prompted by a Hamas cameraman. In Tel Aviv, crowds erupted in celebration as news of her release was broadcast. At Bellinson Hospital in central Israel, previously freed hostages Liri Albag, Naama Levy, Daniella Gilboa, and Karina Ariev rejoiced over their friend’s safe return.
Hamas Displays Strength Amid Ceasefire
Following the exchange, Hamas staged a show of force in northern Gaza, with dozens of its Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigade fighters brandishing assault rifles and escorting the Red Cross convoy out of Jabalia refugee camp. The backdrop of this display was a landscape of destruction—sand mounds piled high by Israeli bulldozers, gutted buildings, and a massive Palestinian flag draped over a partially collapsed structure.
The January 19 ceasefire has temporarily halted hostilities, but the situation remains tense as both sides continue to navigate the fragile truce.
