Three Israeli hostages freed by Hamas appeared to receive “gift bags” containing souvenirs from their captivity after their release on Sunday.
Hamas released a video showing hostages Emily Damari, 28, Romi Gonen, 24, and Doron Steinbrecher, 31 Steinbrecher was handed a paper bag with the logo of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, through the car window.
The hostages were photographed smiling as they held up the bag, which reportedly contained “gifts and souvenirs” from their time in captivity, including certificates.
Hamas agents gave each hostage a bag – AFP
Israeli media reported that each certificate was signed and engraved with a “decision to release.”
According to Israeli media Ynet, the bags also included photos of the hostages in captivity and maps of the Gaza corridor.
The hostages then boarded a white minibus with their luggage and were taken to Gaza City’s Salaya Square, where they were handed over to the Red Cross.
After giving hostages bags, Hamas shows documents – Reuters
They told The Jerusalem Post that the bags were a “cynical game,” suggesting they could be a Hamas propaganda ploy.
However, the purpose of these bags is unclear.
The Daily Telegraph has contacted the Red Cross for comment.
Ms. Damari, Ms. Gonen and Ms. Steinbrecher were the first hostages to be released following Israel’s ceasefire with Hamas on Sunday.
Under the agreement, 33 Israeli hostages will be released within the next six weeks in exchange for the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
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