39 Palestinian detainees have been released from Israeli prisons in exchange for a group of hostages held by Hamas.
The release, part of a ceasefire agreement, involves individuals accused of offenses ranging from throwing stones to attempted murder.
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The detainees, comprising 24 women and 15 teenage boys, were released at the Beituniya checkpoint in the occupied West Bank. Israel’s prison service confirms their return home.
The detainees, chosen from a list of 300 women and minors compiled by Israel, were primarily held on remand while awaiting trial.
A quarter of those on the list have been convicted, with the majority being teenage boys, 40% of them under 18.
Tear gas and rubber bullets were used by the Israeli army near the Beituniya checkpoint, where Palestinian supporters faced off against the troops.
Upon release, jubilant Palestinian supporters welcomed the prisoners. The crowd, expressing hope for a continued ceasefire, saw the prisoners dancing and waving Palestinian flags.
For Israel, the released prisoners pose a security threat, while Palestinians view them as victims of occupation.
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Hamas released 13 Israeli hostages as part of the truce deal. The Thai prime minister confirmed the release of Thai nationals held hostage by Hamas separately from the truce deal.
Under the agreement reached earlier in the week, a total of 150 Palestinians held in Israeli jails are expected to be released, with increased humanitarian aid allowed into Gaza.
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Human rights organizations report a surge in Palestinians held without charge since the cross-border attack on southern Israel on October 7, in which Hamas took over 200 hostages.
Over 6,000 Palestinians are now held by Israel on security grounds, many awaiting trial.
