Ongoing kidnapping deal progresses as planned
(MENAFN) The ongoing kidnapping deal is progressing as planned, with recent developments showing a shift from chaos to order. Thursday's disruption at Hamas' repatriation ceremony in Khan Yunis was followed by a more organized transfer on Friday. The Red Cross successfully received the three abductees, Ofer Kalderon and Yerdin Bibas from Kibbutz Nir Oz, and Keith Segal from Kibbutz Kfar Azza. While the two men from Kibbutz Nir Oz had family members and friends injured in the Hamas attack, Bibas lost his entire family. The abductees endured severe treatment during their captivity, and their psychological states may be deeply affected after being held for around 16 months in tunnels or houses.
Though the reunions were emotional, the public should manage expectations. It’s not guaranteed that every abductee’s return will mirror the joy seen in the media, as some individuals may struggle with lasting trauma. Meanwhile, there are concerns that not all kidnapped individuals will be released in the second phase of the agreement, with Israel estimating that Hamas may refuse to free the remaining hostages. This has fueled fears that Hamas could use the abductees as bargaining chips, prompting Israel to consider resuming fighting.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has been reportedly working to disrupt the deal's next stages, particularly after delays since July that cost lives, including Israeli soldiers. The leaks coincide with Netanyahu’s upcoming visit to Washington, where he will meet with U.S. President Trump. There are hopes that Trump's influence will shape the next steps in the deal and prevent the release of more hostages, instead focusing on ending the conflict and potentially expelling Palestinians from Gaza. Despite recent military withdrawals from parts of Gaza, the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza is fraught with difficulties. The devastation is extensive, with water shortages and inadequate shelter, leading some to return to the southern Strip.
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