The Geneva Conventions of 1949 lay down detailed rules regarding the treatment of persons who fall into the hands of the enemy during armed conflict. These persons mainly include prisoners of war, civilian internees, and other protected persons. International Humanitarian Law recognizes that captivity during war is a temporary and exceptional situation. Therefore, the Conventions clearly specify the circumstances under which such captivity can legitimately be terminated. One of the most important grounds for the termination of captivity is the end of active hostilities. According to the Third Geneva Convention, prisoners of war must be released and repatriated without delay after the cessation of active fighting. Captivity is not meant to be punitive in nature but is intended only to prevent combatants from rejoining the conflict. Once the military necessity for detention no longer exists, continuing to hold prisoners would become illegal under international law. Therefore, the conclusion of peace agreements or ceasefires generally creates the primary condition for lawful termination of captivity. Another circumstance under which captivity can be terminated is exchange of prisoners. During armed conflicts, opposing parties may enter into special agreements to exchange prisoners of war. Such exchanges are permitted and encouraged under the Geneva Conventions as a humanitarian measure. These agreements can be made at any stage of the conflict and do not necessarily require the end of hostilities. Prisoner exchanges help reduce human suffering and contribute to confidence-building between conflicting parties. Repatriation