Three More Israeli Hostages Freed in Gaza Ceasefire Swap
- Update Time : 01:25:06 pm, Saturday, 1 February 2025
- / 957 Time View
On Gaza’s coastline, ranks of Hamas fighters assembled on Saturday to oversee the transfer of Israeli-American hostage Keith Siegel, creating a striking display against the backdrop of crashing waves. A stage had been set up at the harbor in Gaza City, where Siegel, 65, dressed in a black tracksuit and dark-grey hat, was escorted to the platform by armed militants. He briefly waved to the crowd and cameras—a gesture reportedly instructed by his captors—before being handed over to the Red Cross. The event featured heavily armed fighters with masked faces, some carrying RPGs and assault rifles, standing in formation around the area. Portraits of fallen Hamas leaders, including military chief Mohammed Deif, were displayed as fighters chanted in his honor. This highly organized scene contrasted with Thursday’s more chaotic hostage exchange in Khan Yunis, which had drawn criticism from Israeli officials. After Siegel’s departure, onlookers, including children, approached the stage, taking photos with the fighters while waving Palestinian flags.
