Israel-Hamas live updates: Israel signals start of Gaza ceasefire after delay; Hamas names first hostages set for release
NBCJAN 12
Hamas Releases Three Israeli Hostages as Cease-Fire Begins
Above: One of the Israeli hostages exits a vehicle during the hostage-prisoner exchange operation in Saraya Square in western Gaza City on Jan. 19, 2025. Image copyright: Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
Though Israel wants nothing more than to see all the hostages released, this cease-fire and hostage deal isn't in the country's best interest. The next Yahya Sinwar — Hamas' slain leader and the architect of Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel — might be among the insane, despicable, jihadist murderous terrorists Tel Aviv is being forced to free. Unfortunately, Israel may pay for this deal in blood many years down the road.
Pro-Palestine narrative
Though a cease-fire was long overdue, the Israel-Palestinian "conflict" isn't over, and Israel's occupation and apartheid system will remain. This war has proved that the Palestinian cause can't be dealt with via normalization agreements between Arab autocrats and Israel. Regardless of what happens next, Gaza has been destroyed, and Palestinians will continue to struggle for their liberation.