12 Thai and 13 Israeli hostages released amidst Israel-Hamas Ceasefire

Hamas released 12 Thai hostages and 13 Israeli hostages on Friday, after nearly 7-weeks of confinement. The hostages were released as a part of the 96-hour ceasefire contract, mediated by Qatar which commenced at 7 am local time on Friday, bringing a temporary halt to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Taking to social media platform ‘X’, Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed the release of the 13 Thai hostages. "It has been confirmed by the Security Department and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs that 12 Thai hostages have already been released. Embassy officials are on their way to pick them up in another hour. Their names and details should be known soon," posted the Thailand PM.

As per the terms of hostage exchange, Hamas had planned to transfer 13 Israeli hostages to Egypt in exchange for 39 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. With the release of the 12 Thai nationals, a total of 25 individuals were released by Hamas. However, Israel is yet to release the 39 Palestinians in return. As per reports, the hostages were handed over to the Red Cross.

The truce between Israel and Hamas marks the first pause in hostilities since October 7, when Hamas conducted a series of attacks within Israeli territory. In the ongoing conflict, over 1,300 Israelis have tragically lost their lives. Meanwhile, in Gaza, the death toll stands at approximately 15,000.​