Sana’a – Saba: Merzah Al-Asal
The second prisoner exchange operation between the Palestinian resistance and the Zionist entity carried strong political and military messages directed at the Zionist enemy and the global audience.
This operation, which took place on Saturday, was marked by significant details and scenes that conveyed clear implications of strength, unity, and resilience.
Palestinian media broadcasted the exchange live from "Palestine Square" in central Gaza City. The event included a striking military parade organized by the Palestinian resistance, showcasing its strength and discipline.
Unlike the first exchange conducted last Sunday, this operation saw the joint participation of Al-Quds Brigades (the military wing of Islamic Jihad) and Al-Qassam Brigades (the military wing of Hamas), along with security personnel. This collaboration underscored the unity and coordination among Palestinian factions.
The field arrangements were noteworthy, with the resistance imposing strict barriers to prevent civilians from mingling with the Red Cross vehicles. A dedicated platform was erected for the handover of Zionist female prisoners.
The operation involved a larger number of resistance members than the first exchange, reflecting the resistance's intent to project strength to the Zionist entity.
Al-Qassam and Al-Quds fighters arrived at the square in vehicles and motorcycles, showcasing their preparedness. Meanwhile, Palestinian civilians gathered at "Palestine Square" with flags, emphasizing the deep national significance of the event.
One poignant moment was a woman throwing flowers into the square, symbolizing the unity between the Palestinian people and the resistance, which has endured relentless Zionist aggression.
Through these meticulously planned arrangements, the Palestinian resistance aimed to deliver several messages to the Zionist entity. The military parade highlighted the extensive presence of resistance forces, proving that the Zionist war failed to weaken them. The joint participation of Al-Quds and Al-Qassam Brigades illustrated the solidarity among Palestinian factions. The platform displayed slogans such as "Zionism Will Not Triumph" and listed Zionist brigades that suffered significant defeats.
The "Palestine Square" choice was deliberate, as it holds historical significance for Gaza residents. It was once a site of Zionist tank incursions aimed at asserting control over the region. Today, the square stands as a symbol of Palestinian resilience.
As part of the ceasefire agreement initiated last Sunday, the Palestinian resistance handed over four Zionist female soldiers to the Red Cross team. Al-Qassam Brigades spokesperson Abu Ubaida announced their names: Karina Ariev, Danielle Galboah, Naama Levy, and Liri Elbag.
According to Zionist media, Hamas selected elite members to oversee the handover, armed with weapons seized from the Zionist army during the October 7, 2023, attack.
The resistance showcased the four female soldiers in their military uniforms on a platform in the square, drawing large Palestinian crowds in a show of public support.
Observers noted that the operation underscored the resistance’s ability to leverage such moments for political and moral gains. The event sent a clear message to the Zionists: the resistance remains steadfast, organized, and capable of executing prisoner exchanges that highlight its strength and unity.
The handover at "Palestine Square" was not merely a logistical process but a symbolic event. Preparations included a massive public turnout, reflecting the popular support for the resistance.
Al-Qassam fighters, particularly from the elite unit targeted by the Zionist entity during its 15-month aggression, were prominently present. The weapons displayed during the event included "Tavor" rifles seized from elite Zionist forces.
Journalist Tamer Al-Mishal from Al Jazeera noted the significance of the resistance members appearing with seized Zionist weapons. This emphasized two key messages: the failure of the Zionist army to recover its prisoners and the enduring strength of the resistance.
Islam Badr, a reporter for Al-Araby TV in Gaza, highlighted the symbolism of the female soldiers wearing their original military uniforms from their capture near Gaza’s border on October 7, 2023.
The soldiers appeared healthy and smiling as they waved to the crowds and carried bags with souvenirs.
Experts believe Hamas is working on multiple fronts. Politically, it aims to assert its centrality in Gaza’s future. Militarily, the choice of "Palestine Square" and the involvement of the shadow unit responsible for securing prisoners underscored its strategic capabilities.
Media expert Fayed Abu Shumaila noted that the platform for the handover carried four key messages. The Palestinian flag was the sole emblem on the table, signaling that the land belongs exclusively to the Palestinian people. The strong and disciplined presence of resistance fighters reflected high-level coordination. The platform’s banner, declaring “Zionism Will Not Triumph,” was flanked by slogans referencing defeated Zionist brigades. Images of Zionist political and military leaders labeled as “Failures” were placed on the platform’s floor, inviting attendees to trample on them.
E.M
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