In a dramatic turn of events, Hamas freed four young Israeli women on Saturday as part of a ceasefire agreement with Israel. The deal also saw the release of around 200 Palestinian prisoners, but tensions flared when Israel blocked civilians in Gaza from returning to their homes in the north.

The freed hostages—Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag—had been held in Gaza since the October 7 attacks. All four, aged 19 and 20, are now in stable condition and undergoing medical checks at Beilinson Hospital. Their release was marked by emotional scenes in Tel Aviv, where crowds gathered to celebrate their return.

However, the joy was short-lived. Israel announced it would not allow Gazans to move north as planned, citing the failure to release Arbel Yehud, a 29-year-old civilian believed to still be in captivity. Israeli officials claim Yehud was kidnapped from her home and should have been freed as part of the deal.

Meanwhile, Hamas staged a show of force during the handover, waving flags and displaying a poster mocking Israeli leaders. The group’s defiance came despite heavy losses in recent weeks.

The ceasefire also led to the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners, including 121 serving life sentences for deadly attacks. Many were greeted with cheers in the West Bank, where supporters carried them through the streets in celebration.

But the situation remains tense. Hundreds of displaced Gazans hoping to return north were met with gunfire as Israeli forces enforced the travel ban. It’s unclear if there were any casualties, but the incident has deepened frustrations on both sides.

As the ceasefire holds, the focus now shifts to whether further releases can be negotiated—and whether peace can last.