The three Israeli hostages freed by Hamas appeared to have received “gift bags” containing memories of their captivity after their release on Sunday.
Hamas released a video showing hostages Emily Damari, 28, Romi Gonen, 24, and Doron Steinbrecher, 31, being handed paper bags with the logo of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's armed wing, by the window of a vehicle.
The hostages were filmed laughing as they held up the bags, which reportedly contained “gifts and souvenirs” from those in captivity, including certificates.
Hamas operatives handed each hostage a bag – AFP
Israeli media reported that each certificate was signed and accompanied by a “release decision.”
According to Israeli newspaper Ynet, the bags also included photographs of the hostages while in captivity and a map of the Gaza Strip.
The hostages then boarded a small white minibus with the bags and were driven to Al-Saraya Square in Gaza City, a meeting point where they were handed over to the Red Cross.
After giving the bags to the hostages, Hamas showed documentation – Reuters
They told the Jerusalem Post that the bags were a “cynical game,” suggesting it may have been a propaganda tactic by Hamas.
However, the purpose of the bags was not immediately clear.
De Telegraaf has contacted the Red Cross for comment.
Ms Damari, Ms Gonen and Ms Steinbrecher were the first hostages released on Sunday as a result of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
Under the deal, 33 Israeli hostages are to be released over the next six weeks in exchange for the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
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