Gaza/Ramallah – Streets across Gaza and the West Bank erupted in celebration as hundreds of Palestinians welcomed home prisoners released by Israel under the latest phase of a negotiated exchange deal. The release, seen as a major step toward easing tensions, has sparked scenes of jubilation and renewed calls for unity among Palestinian factions.
The freed detainees — many of whom had spent years in Israeli prisons — were greeted by cheering crowds waving flags, chanting slogans, and carrying portraits of their loved ones. Emotional reunions unfolded as families embraced sons and daughters they had not seen for years. Fireworks and traditional music filled the air in several cities, including Ramallah, Nablus, and Khan Younis.
“I can’t describe this feeling,” said Mariam Al-Khatib, whose brother was among those released. “We waited for this moment for so long. It feels like a victory for every Palestinian mother who never gave up hope.”
The release was part of a broader agreement brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, designed to maintain a fragile truce following months of intense fighting. In exchange, Hamas agreed to free several Israeli civilians held in Gaza, while Israel approved the release of Palestinian detainees — mostly women, minors, and those accused of lesser offenses.
Israeli officials confirmed that the move was in line with the terms of the temporary ceasefire, but emphasized that “security evaluations” would continue before any further releases. “Every release is weighed carefully,” said an Israeli government spokesperson. “Our priority remains the safety of our citizens and the prevention of future attacks.”
For Palestinians, however, the release carried deep symbolic weight. Many view the prisoners as symbols of resistance and resilience in the face of decades-long occupation. Political analysts say the event has strengthened morale and could bolster diplomatic momentum toward a longer-term ceasefire.
In Gaza, Hamas leaders hailed the release as proof that “resistance achieves results,” while Palestinian Authority officials in the West Bank called for renewed national reconciliation. “We must seize this moment — the return of our people must be a step toward unity, not division,” said senior Fatah official Mahmoud Aloul.
Despite the celebrations, the mood remains cautious. Many Palestinians fear that without a durable political agreement, renewed violence could undo the fragile calm. Human rights groups have urged both sides to prioritize civilian lives and continue confidence-building measures, including more prisoner releases.
For now, the images of families reunited after years of separation have brought a rare sense of relief and hope to a region long mired in grief — a fleeting glimpse of peace in a landscape too often defined by conflict.