Israel frees four detainees to Lebanon in US-mediated exchange

Israel handed over four detainees to Lebanese authorities on Friday, completing a release that began a day earlier. The move follows negotiations between the two countries, facilitated by the United States, and comes amid heightened tensions along the border.

All four men had been captured by Israeli forces in southern Lebanon, where troops currently occupy a significant area following renewed hostilities with Hezbollah. The fighting erupted shortly after coordinated US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

Among those freed was Hussein Ayash, a resident of the southern village of Harouf. Speaking after his return, Ayash described being seized on a main road and taken into Israel. He said he encountered only a handful of fellow detainees during his imprisonment.

"There was no torture, in the literal sense of the word," Ayash said. "But it was not a comfortable experience at all. May God spare everyone from ever having to go through it."

Ayash also recalled the moment of release, noting that detainees were not informed of their fate until reaching the crossing at Naqoura. "It is the gateway to freedom, a feeling that cannot be described," he said. "It feels like the day you are born again."

Two Lebanese officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the released group comprised two Lebanese citizens and two Syrians captured in Lebanon. It remains unclear whether the Syrian detainees will be repatriated. Hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees and workers currently reside in Lebanon.

Israel had previously stated its agreement to the release came after Lebanon assisted in efforts to locate the remains of Lebanese Jewish leaders who disappeared during the country's civil war in the 1980s. Further talks between the parties are expected in Rome later this month.

Relatives and supporters greeted the returning men with celebrations, embracing them as they arrived home.