On 15 February 2025, all three hostages, including Russian citizen Alexander Trufanov, were handed over to representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in the city of Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. The release was made possible by multi-stage negotiations involving international mediators and humanitarian organizations. 

Alexander Trufanov was captured in October 2023, when militants kidnapped several citizens in an attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz in Israel. His family - his mother, grandmother, and fiancée - were also captured. They were later released, but Trufanov himself remains a hostage to this day. 

The transfer of the hostages took place under heightened security conditions. Immediately after their release, all three hostages were handed over to the Red Cross for medical examination and subsequent evacuation. According to international sources, the condition of all three is assessed as satisfactory. 

The situation in the Gaza Strip remains extremely complex and unpredictable. Despite the ceasefire signed in January 2025, incidents involving armed groups and armed clashes continue, making the work of humanitarian organizations in the region extremely dangerous. 

The story of the capture of Alexander Trufanov has become one of the most resonant in recent months. After a large-scale militant offensive in October 2023, hundreds of citizens were taken captive, which caused an international reaction and numerous diplomatic efforts to free the hostages. 

The negotiations for the release were conducted with the active participation of the Red Cross and international mediators from Egypt and Qatar. It was precisely due to the coordination of efforts of these parties that the release of the hostages became possible. 

Amid ongoing tensions in the region, the release of the three hostages is a significant step towards stabilizing the situation. The international community hopes that this event will mark the beginning of a more constructive dialogue between the conflicting parties. 

The Russian Embassy confirmed the fact of the transfer of Alexander Trufanov to the Red Cross and assured that it will accompany his return to his homeland and provide the necessary support. 

The ceasefire reached in Gaza in January 2025 was an important step in preventing a new wave of violence. However, events in recent months show that the risk of renewed hostilities remains high. International humanitarian organizations continue to monitor the situation, calling on the parties to comply with their obligations and ensure the safety of civilians.