Arbel Yehud, a young Israeli woman who was kidnapped from her home in Kibbutz Nir Oz during a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, is set to be released by the terrorist group next week. According to Reuters, the 29-year-old Yehud is expected to regain her freedom on Saturday, as confirmed by a Hamas official.
In response to the impending release, Israeli officials have requested proof of life and assurance from the terror group that Yehud will indeed be included in the next round of hostage releases. This demand comes after Israel accused Hamas of breaching the terms of a ceasefire by failing to release all female civilian hostages before female soldier hostages.
While Yehud is believed to be held by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad rather than Hamas, the situation has become increasingly complex. As a result of the alleged violation, Israel has restricted the passage of Palestinians to certain areas of Gaza until Yehud is safely returned.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office declared, “As per the agreement, Israel will not allow the passage of Gazans to the north of the Strip — until the release of the civilian Arbel Yehud, who was supposed to be released today, is arranged.”
Yehud was taken alongside her boyfriend Ariel Cunio during the abduction, which tragically resulted in the death of her brother, Dolev Yehud. On the same day, four Israeli soldiers—Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag—were exchanged in Gaza City with the assistance of the International Committee of the Red Cross.
The Yehud family expressed their elation at the release of the four women, stating, “Our hearts are filled with joy at the return of Karina, Daniella, Liri, and Naama. We are waiting and looking forward to the moment when we can hug our Arbel as soon as possible.”
The impending release of Arbel Yehud brings hope and relief to her loved ones, as they anticipate her safe return and reunion with her family after enduring such a traumatic ordeal.
