The handover took place on January 30, 2025, and involved Hamas releasing a total of eight hostages, including three Israelis and five Thai nationals. The exchange, however, was marred by tumult as crowds of Palestinians surged towards the scene, eager to see the Israeli captives held for 15 months during the war. This chaos ensued particularly in Khan Younis, where two Israeli hostages, Arbel Yehud, 29, and Gadi Moses, 80, were released, causing visible distress.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel condemned the disorderly scenes, describing them as "shocking" and indicative of Hamas's brutality. The Israeli government had originally planned to simultaneously release over 100 Palestinian prisoners as part of the ongoing truce agreements mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. However, in light of the chaotic events, Netanyahu temporarily halted this release, calling for stronger guarantees for the safety of Israeli hostages in future dealings.

After negotiations, Israeli officials decided to proceed with releasing the Palestinian prisoners, citing mediators' assurances of safer conduct in forthcoming exchanges. The recent incidents shed light on the complexities and dangers involved in negotiations within an already volatile environment, while drawing attention to the emotional weight on both sides of the conflict.