Israel is preparing to receive four female soldiers held by Hamas on Saturday, in the latest release of captives under the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal.
The militant group said Friday that it intends to release Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy – all 20 years old – and Liri Albag, 19.
The four women were among seven female soldiers kidnapped from the Nahal Oz military base, where they served as lookouts, observing activity inside Gaza.
Here’s what we know about them.
Freedom Albag joined the Israel Defense Forces shortly after graduating high school and has turned 19 while in captivity. Footage of Albag, clearly filmed under duress, was released by Hamas earlier this month. Her family said the video had “torn (their) hearts to pieces.”
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum described Albag as someone who “radiates joy, with a smile and laugh that brightens the day of everyone around her.” According to her family and friends, Albag is a big fan of singing, photography, and cooking. Her dream was to study in Paris and become an interior designer and architect.
Karina Ariev turned 20 in captivity. In January 2024, Hamas released a video showing Ariev and Gilboa pleading for their lives.
-The Hostages and Missing Families Forum described Ariev as someone who “shares the love within her with her family and friends, is sensitive to everything, and always takes care of everyone.” They said she is from Jerusalem and enjoys dancing, singing, writing, cooking, and makeup. The forum said she dreams of becoming a psychologist “and is known for being compassionate and for bringing people together.”
Daniella Gilboa is from Petah Tikva, central Israel, and turned 20 in captivity.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum described her as a “passionate musician who studies piano and singing, aspiring to pursue a professional career in music. Known for her optimism and kindness.”
Face also turned 20 in captivity. A video showing her kidnapping on October 7 became symbolic of the brutality of the Hamas attack that day. It showed her being dragged by her hair at gunpoint, her hands bound, her ankles cut and her pants soaked in blood.
Her family and friends have described her as gentle and quiet, yet full of light, joy, strength, and determination. They said Levy competed in triathlons and played tennis. She also took part in the Hands of Peace project, which brings together young Israelis, Palestinians and Americans to discuss the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
