Israel releases 35 Gaza detainees

Israel’s military announced on Tuesday that it had released 35 Palestinian detainees from facilities in the Gaza Strip. The individuals, who had been held since the escalation of hostilities that began in early October, were transferred to the Palestinian Authority in the West Bank as part of a coordinated humanitarian effort. Israeli officials said the release was intended to ease civilian suffering and to support ongoing diplomatic talks aimed at reducing the intensity of the conflict.

The detainees, identified as a mix of civilians and low‑level militants, were taken into custody during raids conducted by Israeli forces in Gaza following the October 7 attacks. The Israeli Defense Forces emphasized that the release does not signal a broader policy shift, but reflects a “temporary humanitarian measure” in response to international calls for easing the humanitarian situation. Palestinian authorities welcomed the step, urging further releases and the opening of additional humanitarian corridors, while the United Nations called for continued confidence‑building actions to protect civilians on both sides.