Israel Releases 183 Security Prisoners in Exchange for Hostages as Part of Ceasefire Deal

In a significant development on Saturday, Israel released 183 Palestinian security prisoners, including several senior members of terrorist organizations, in exchange for the return of hostages Or Levy, Eli Sharabi, and Ohad Ben Ami. This move was part of the fifth wave of a ceasefire and hostage exchange deal with Hamas.

Among those released, 18 prisoners had been sentenced to life for their involvement in heinous attacks on Israelis. The list includes individuals responsible for the deaths of numerous civilians and for orchestrating terrorist operations over several years.

Key Figures Released:

- Iyad Abu-Shkheidem, a Hamas operative, was responsible for a double suicide bombing in Beersheba in 2004 that killed 16 Israelis and wounded over 100. He also prepared an explosive belt for a terrorist attack in Jerusalem that was foiled in 2004.

- Hatem al-Jayusi, a founder of Fatah's military wing, the Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades, was sentenced to life for the murder of six Israelis during the Second Intifada.

- Ahmad Atiya Ibrahim al-Ja’afrah, another Fatah operative, was sentenced to life and will be deported to Gaza upon his release.

- Falah Ratib Shahadeh, a member of Fatah, was arrested in 2004 for recruiting terror cells and carrying out attacks. He will also be deported after his release.

- Shadi Barghouti, involved in the 1978 murder of Israeli bus driver Mordechai Yakoel, was also on the list of prisoners set to be released.

- Jamal Tawil, a senior Hamas leader, was involved in organizing riots and re-establishing Hamas influence in Ramallah. He was arrested in 2021.

In exchange for these prisoners, Israel secured the release of three hostages who had been held in Gaza since the beginning of the conflict, with their return marking a bittersweet moment for their families.

Security Concerns and Military Preparations:

In light of these prisoner releases, Israeli security forces, including the IDF, Shin Bet, and the Civil Administration, took precautionary measures to prevent celebrations and public displays of support for terrorism. Warnings were issued against rallies that could glorify violence or terrorism, with the IDF carrying out special patrols and meetings to ensure that such activities did not escalate.

Despite these warnings, celebrations erupted in Ramallah, where Palestinians were seen welcoming the released prisoners with joy. Revelers carried prisoners on their shoulders, waving Palestinian flags and keffiyehs in a show of solidarity.

This prisoner exchange is the latest chapter in a complex and ongoing negotiation process between Israel and Hamas, involving hostages, security prisoners, and ceasefire deals.