Great news came this week as Hamas released eight hostages, including three Israelis and five Thais, in a carefully arranged swap. This marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began after the October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel.

The three Israeli hostages were freed as part of a 42-day cease-fire deal that kicked off earlier this month. Under this agreement, Hamas plans to gradually release 33 out of the nearly 100 hostages still in captivity. In return, Israel will release over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners and withdraw some of its forces.

Agam Berger, a 19-year-old soldier, was among those released. She was working as a lookout at the Nahal Oz army base when militants stormed the site, killing over 50 soldiers and abducting her and six others. Berger’s mother, Meirav, shared that she last saw her daughter just two days before the attack. During the chaos, Berger managed to call her parents using a friend’s phone—a friend who tragically lost their life right beside her.

Another emotional moment came when Agam Goldstein-Almog, a former hostage released in an earlier deal, revealed that she had been held in a tunnel with Berger. She described Berger as someone who remained strong and often prayed during their ordeal.

The second release took place in southern Gaza but quickly turned chaotic as crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of the freed hostages. Despite the commotion, this exchange brings a glimmer of hope for the families still waiting for their loved ones to return home.

This step forward in the cease-fire deal not only highlights the fragile peace process but also sheds light on the human stories behind the headlines. Let’s hope this momentum continues towards a lasting resolution.