**Eight Israeli and Thai Hostages Freed from Gaza**
In a chaotic scene, eight hostages were released from Gaza on Thursday as part of a ceasefire agreement with Israel. The hostages included three Israelis and five Thais who were held by Hamas.
**Israeli Soldier First to be Released**
The first person to be released was Israeli soldier Agam Berger, a woman who was taken from an unarmed group of observers on October 7, 2023. She was led by masked gunmen in a staged event through rubble at Jabalia in the north of Gaza. As she was handed over to the Red Cross, armed Hamas fighters kept civilians at bay.
**Family Reunited**
Berger’s family said they were thrilled to see her face and watch her return home. However, they emphasized that their recovery would not be complete until all hostages are returned. Another Israeli hostage, Gadi Mose, was also released on Thursday.
**Other Releases**
In addition to Berger and Mose, three Israeli civilians – Arbel Yahud, 29, Sathian Suwannakham, and Pongsak Thaenna Bannawat Seathao, Watchara Sriaoun, and Surasak were also released. They had been taken during a war that has devastated Gaza.
**Ceasefire Agreement**
The releases are part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The agreement includes the release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. So far, 290 Palestinians have been released, including 32 people serving life sentences and 30 minors.
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