![A group of Palestinian prisoners released by Israeli forces arrive in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, through the International Committee of the Red Cross, on January 18, 2026. [Mohammed Nassar - Anadolu Agency]](https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/AA-20260118-40293505-40293497-RELEASED_PALESTINIAN_PRISONERS_ARRIVE_IN_DEIR_ALBALAH-1.jpg)
Israel released seven more Palestinian detainees, who were taken to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah in the central Gaza Strip, Anadolu reports. Teams from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) facilitated the transfer, escorting the detainees into Gaza through the Kerem Abu Salem crossing in the south of the enclave. After entering Gaza, the detainees were transported to Deir al-Balah, where they arrived at the hospital for medical examinations and further care. The release and handover took place amid ongoing humanitarian strain in the Gaza Strip, where hospitals have repeatedly reported shortages and heavy patient caseloads. According to Palestinian data, more than 9,300 Palestinians are currently held in Israeli prisons, including at least 3,385 held in administrative detention […]
