Palestinians poured onto the streets of Gaza and the West Bank on January 31, 2025, to greet the 110 prisoners, including 30 children, who were released from Israeli prisons earlier today. The prisoners were released as part of the Al-Aqsa Flood deal, exchanged for three Israeli and five Thai captives held by Hamas.
Celebrations erupted, especially among families gathered in the heart of Ramallah, who welcomed their loved ones freed after years of suffering. Among the released was Zakaria Zubeidi, a significant figure in the Palestinian resistance, whose liberation has become emblematic of the triumph over incarceration. “This joy is indescribable. We knew for sure we would be released, and the resistance would not abandon us,” stated Qasem Muslim, who spent 24 years behind bars.
Muslim, now 56 years old and physically affected by years of abuse during his imprisonment, recalled harrowing experiences leading to his release. “Every day, we were beaten, even on the day of our release, starting from 1 AM. The beatings never stopped,” he recounted during his emotional reunion.
The celebrations were not solely for high-profile figures like Zubeidi. Families also gathered to honor those sentenced to life terms. Hytham al-‘Anteri, who was imprisoned for 24 years, brought joy to his family, particularly his sister, Thaira. She expressed her love, saying, “He was like a son to me after my mother passed away, and I never thought I would see him again without a barrier between us.” Thaira wore one of the few belongings she had received from her brother over the years as she welcomed him back.
Many families experienced mixed feelings. For example, Mariam Murshoud from the Balata refugee camp waited anxiously for her son, Ahmed, who had been sentenced to life. Singing songs of liberation, she remarked, “This is his wedding day,” reflecting the blend of happiness and apprehension felt by many families as their loved ones returned home.
Still, the celebration was shadowed by heartbreak for some. Samih al-Shobki, who spent 22 years imprisoned, learned of his mother’s passing during his detention. His Aunt Khatam, who traveled from Jordan to meet him, shared her sister’s final words urging her to care for Samih. Samih reflected, “I know she’s looking down on us now, smiling at this moment,” finding solace knowing his mother would be proud of his release.
The large scale of the release, which includes over 110 prisoners, and public enthusiasm reflects the social dynamics within Palestinian society. It signifies not only the end of incarceration for those freed but also embodies the broader hope for liberation and justice among their families and supporters.
Overall, the release of these prisoners marks both personal victories for their families and collective moments for the Palestinian community, demonstrating resilience and the continuous quest for dignity and freedom.