Jerusalem/Tel Aviv (ICRC) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) today facilitated a safe return of 20 hostages to Israeli authorities and 1,809 Palestinian detainees to Gaza and the West Bank. A total of 1,969 detainees were released today, and the ICRC conducted pre-release interviews for all. The ICRC also transferred the remains of four deceased hostages to Israeli authorities.
This operation was carried out at the request of the parties and in close coordination with them. Throughout these release operations, the ICRC was focused on ensuring the transfers were safe and dignified. Specialized ICRC staff, including doctors, were on hand to provide immediate medical care and attention as needed.
The ICRC calls for the continued implementation of the agreement to allow more families to receive their loved ones for dignified burial. The ICRC stands ready to further support the transfer of remains of the deceased, as per the agreement by parties.
To date, the ICRC has facilitated the release and transfer of 172 hostages and 3,473 detainees since October 2023 as part of ceasefire agreements. These operations are a powerful testament to how the ICRC's role as a neutral intermediary can save and change lives, provided that the parties come to an agreement. It is crucial that all the relevant actors abide by their commitments to uphold human dignity, and end the pain and suffering endured by so many.
