Hundreds of Palestinians gathered in Ramallah on Monday morning, waiting anxiously for the return of their loved ones after Israel began releasing prisoners as part of a major hostage deal with Hamas.
Buses believed to be carrying freed prisoners were seen leaving Ofer prison, marking one of the most significant exchanges since the start of the Gaza conflict. Under the agreement, Israel is expected to release 250 Palestinian prisoners and more than 1,700 detainees from Gaza in exchange for 20 living Israeli hostages.
At a reception hall in central Ramallah, families hugged pictures of their relatives, many of whom had spent decades behind bars. Among them was 24-year-old Amro Abdullah, who waited eagerly for his cousin Rashid Omar, jailed since 2005.
“He is ready to embrace freedom,” Amro said. “I just want peace — to live a happy life, safe and free from occupation.”
However, the scene was less celebratory than in past exchanges. Palestinian authorities, under Israeli pressure, imposed strict security to prevent large public gatherings or displays of political flags. Many families said they were told not to wave banners, distribute sweets, or cheer openly.
Some relatives expressed confusion and frustration, saying the list of those being released kept changing overnight. Others were told their loved ones would not be returning home but deported elsewhere.
Despite the tension, the release brought emotional relief across Palestinian territories — and cautious optimism for peace after months of war.
Meanwhile, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that 13 Israeli hostages have been handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza and are now in Israeli custody. Hamas also announced that all 20 living hostages had been released, with the bodies of 28 deceased captives to follow later.
In Gaza, hospitals under the Hamas-run health ministry have begun preparing to receive the freed prisoners, with medical teams on standby at Nasser Hospital.
