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Israel released 183 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday as part of a ceasefire deal in exchange for hostages held by Hamas. The release, however, remains controversial, with Israel labeling them as terrorists and Palestinians seeing them as resistance fighters.
Among those freed, 18 had life sentences, while 54 were serving long terms for deadly attacks. Many had been imprisoned for over two decades. In Beitunia, West Bank, crowds greeted them as heroes, waving flags and chanting for Hamas.
Seven prisoners convicted of serious crimes were deported to Egypt. Additionally, 111 detainees from Gaza, held without trial after Hamas’ October 7 attack, were also freed. The Red Cross transported them to Gaza’s Khan Younis, where celebrations erupted.
Notable releases include Iyad Abu Shakhdam, responsible for Hamas attacks in the early 2000s, and Mohammed el-Halabi, a Gaza aid worker imprisoned on controversial charges. The prisoner release remains a key issue in ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
A look at some prominent Palestinian prisoners released since the truce went into effect on Jan. 19:
IYAD ABU SHAKHDAM, 49
Sentenced to 18 life terms for Hamas attacks during the Second Intifada, including a 2004 suicide bombing in Beersheba that killed 16. Captured in 2004 after a gunfight. Released to celebrations in Beitunia.
JAMAL AL-TAWIL, 61
Hamas politician accused of plotting attacks. Arrested in 2021 and held without trial. Previously elected mayor of Al-Bireh while in prison. Too weak to walk upon release, hospitalized immediately.
MOHAMMED EL-HALABI, 47
Former Gaza director of World Vision, accused of diverting funds to Hamas. Rights groups criticized his trial. Sentenced to 12 years in 2016, released Feb. 1.
SHADI AMOURI, 44
Islamic Jihad member convicted for a 2002 bus bombing that killed 17 Israelis. Sentenced to life plus 20 years. Exiled to Egypt upon release.
ZAKARIA ZUBEIDI
Ex-Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigade leader turned theater director. Jailed for shooting attacks, denies charges. Escaped Israeli prison in 2021, recaptured. Released Jan. 30.
MOHAMMED ABU WARDA
Hamas member sentenced to 48 life terms for recruiting suicide bombers. Released and deported Jan. 30.
MOHAMMED ARADEH, 42
Islamic Jihad militant sentenced to life for bomb plots. Mastermind of 2021 Israeli prison escape. Celebrated in Ramallah after release.
MOHAMMED ODEH, 52 | WAEL QASSIM, 54 | WISSAM ABBASI, 48
Hamas operatives behind 2002 pool hall and Hebrew University bombings, killing 24 people. Sentenced to life, deported to Egypt on Jan. 25.
MOHAMMAD AL-TOUS, 67
Longest-held Palestinian prisoner, arrested in 1985 for Fatah militancy. Spent 39 years in Israeli prison before exile on Jan. 25.