ICRC Expresses Relief Over Hostage, Detainee Swap in Hamas-Israel War
From Umar Dankano, Yola
The President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Mirjana Spoljaric, has expressed relief over the recent release and peaceful swap of three Israeli hostages and 90 Palestinian detainees facilitated by the warring sides in the ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict.
Aliyu Dawobe, Public Relations Officer of the ICRC Abuja Delegation, revealed this in a press statement issued on Monday. He noted that the ICRC played a key role in facilitating the exchange, bringing hope and relief to affected families.
“The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) facilitated the release and transfer of three hostages from Gaza to Israel and 90 Palestinian detainees from Israel to the occupied Palestinian territory. We are relieved that those released have been reunited with their loved ones,” Spoljaric stated.
The statement highlighted the complexity of the operation, which required meticulous security measures to minimize risks to all parties involved. Spoljaric explained that navigating large crowds, heightened emotions, and the dangers of unexploded ordnance in Gaza posed significant challenges during the transfer.
“This operation marks the beginning of a multi-phase process, as agreed by the parties, to return hostages and detainees safely home. The ICRC, as a neutral humanitarian intermediary, is committed to facilitating future transfers,” Spoljaric added.
Specialized ICRC staff, including medical professionals, were present to provide immediate care where needed. The statement reaffirmed the ICRC’s readiness to continue its efforts, urging all parties to uphold their commitments to ensure the safety of upcoming operations.
“The ICRC is prepared to scale up its humanitarian response in coordination with Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement partners. This includes delivering critical relief such as medicines, food, and support to essential services like healthcare, water, sanitation, and electricity,” the statement read.
Spoljaric further emphasized the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law during all release operations, particularly in protecting civilians and safeguarding medical facilities and personnel.
“We call on all parties to remain committed to their agreements, as more families are anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones. Humanitarian assistance must continue to flow into Gaza, where civilians have endured severe hardships for months, struggling to access basic necessities like food, clean water, and shelter,” Spoljaric said.
The ICRC reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for lasting peace and stability in the Middle East while urging all parties to prioritize humanitarian needs and the protection of civilians.
