German Foreign Minister Praises Egypt’s Role in Gaza Hostage Release

Cairo — German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has expressed her gratitude to Egypt for playing a crucial role in negotiating the release of hostages from Gaza, including Ohad Ben Ami, who holds both German and Israeli citizenship.

On Saturday, Palestinian factions released three hostages—Eliyahu Datson Yosef Sharabi, Or Abraham Lisha Levi, and Ohad Ben Ami—in exchange for the release of 183 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli detention.

Following the release, Baerbock shared her thoughts on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Eli, Or, and Ohad—three more have finally been freed today. This is a reason for joy and gives hope. At the same time, it is deeply troubling that Hamas publicly displayed the three men at the last moment and forced them into ‘interviews’.”

She also acknowledged the emotional toll on the families of the hostages, adding, “My thoughts are especially with German-Israeli Raz, who feared for Ohad’s life. After 14 months, she can finally embrace her husband Ohad again.”

Baerbock concluded by thanking the negotiation teams from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States for their efforts. She emphasized the need to continue diplomatic work, stating, “Now we must continue working together to reach further agreements, secure the release of all hostages, and finally achieve peace in the region.”

Her statement underscores Germany’s commitment to supporting diplomatic efforts aimed at securing the release of remaining hostages and fostering stability in the region.