In a tense day of diplomacy and drama, Israel and Hamas conducted a third round of hostage-prisoner exchanges on Thursday—despite chaotic scenes that nearly derailed the fragile Gaza ceasefire. 🔄
Rollercoaster Negotiations
After Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu paused the swap over security concerns, mediators scrambled to salvage the deal. Buses carrying Palestinian prisoners initially turned back—but within hours, Israel agreed to release 110 detainees, including 30 minors. 🚌💨
Hostages Return Home
Among those freed: Agam Berger, a 20-year-old soldier captured during Hamas' October 7 attack, and 80-year-old Gadi Mozes. Five Thai agricultural workers were also released, highlighting the global ripple effects of the conflict. 👩✈️👴🌾
Chaos on the Ground
Footage showed hundreds crowding Gaza streets as militants struggled to control the handover. Netanyahu called the scenes \"shocking,\" urging mediators to ensure smoother transfers. Meanwhile, families at Tel Aviv's Hostage Square waved photos of loved ones still in captivity. 🎭📸
What's Next?
U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff hinted a potential American-Israeli release Friday. But with far-right Israeli leaders pushing to resume military ops, the ceasefire's future remains uncertain. As one medic told reporters: \"Every hour of peace counts.\" ⏳💔
