This week in images: 12 historic photos

The Associated Press has released a selection of the most important and striking photos of the week, capturing key global events.

Hostage Release in Gaza

Palestinians watch as Hamas soldiers hand over three Israeli hostages to the Red Cross as part of a peace deal between Israel and Hamas in the central Gaza Strip city of Deir al-Balah. (February 8, 2025)

Palestinian Prisoners Welcomed in Ramallah

Palestinian prisoners released from Israeli custody are greeted in the West Bank city of Ramallah as part of the peace agreement. (February 8, 2025)

Israeli Hostage Eli Sharabi Handed Over

Israeli hostage Eli Sharabi, who was held by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, 2023, is transferred to the Red Cross in Deir al-Balah. (February 8, 2025)

Hezbollah Protest in Beirut

Hezbollah supporters burn tires to block the road to the international airport in Beirut during a protest against statements made by Morgan Ortagus, the US deputy special representative for the Middle East peace process after she meets with Lebanon’s president. (February 7, 2025)

Trump Meets Elon Musk at the White House

US President Donald Trump speaks with Elon Musk and his son X Æ A-Xii at the White House. (February 11, 2025)

Snow Covers the Peace Memorial in Washington

The Peace Memorial (also known as the Marine Memorial or the Civil War Sailors' Memorial) is covered in snow in front of the Capitol after a snowstorm in Washington. (February 12, 2025)

Mark Vogel Returns from Russia

US President Donald Trump meets with Mark Vogel, who was released from Russian custody, at the White House. (February 11, 2025)

Putin-Trump Souvenirs in Russia

Cups featuring images of Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump are displayed for sale at a souvenir shop in St. Petersburg, Russia. (February 13, 2025)

Factory Work in Mexico City

A worker cleans a container at a steel container factory in Mexico City. (February 11, 2025)

Displaced Child in Congo

A child forced to flee his home due to fighting between M23 rebels and government troops wears a damaged helmet at a camp in Goma, Congo. (February 11, 2025)

Fire at Maha Kumbh Mela Festival

Volunteers attempt to save mattresses after a fire broke out in tents housing worshippers and religious leaders during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela festival in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. (February 7, 2025)

Kazakhstan Skater Collapses at Asian Winter Games

A member of the Kazakhstan team collapsed during the women's speed skating team final at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, China. (February 11, 2025)