Israel Releases First of Five Lebanese Detainees in Deal Linked to Search for Jewish Remains

Israel released the first of five Lebanese detainees on Thursday, September 3, 2026, in a move linked to ongoing efforts to locate the remains of Jewish community leaders abducted and killed in Lebanon during the 1980s. The transfer, facilitated by the International Committee of the Red Cross, marks a rare sign of progress in the strained negotiations between the two countries. The first detainee, identified as Malek Ghazi, was handed over to Lebanese authorities at the Naqoura crossing along the Israel-Lebanon border. According to the Red Cross and Lebanese security officials, Ghazi was undergoing medical examinations after his release. Four other detainees are expected to follow in the coming hours. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office stated that the five individuals were civilians detained in areas of southern Lebanon under Israeli military control. After interrogation, authorities determined they had no ties to terrorist organizations and had not participated in terrorist activity.