EL AVIV / GAZA / SHARM EL-SHEIKH — October 13, 2025
In a major breakthrough under a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement, Hamas released the final 20 surviving Israeli hostages on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing Gaza conflict. The Israeli Foreign Ministry confirmed their arrival, posting “Welcome home” on social media and naming each of the freed individuals, including Matan Angrest, Gali Berman, Ziv Berman, and others.
The Israeli military stated that the handover was completed in two phases, with the Red Cross facilitating the transfer of 13 hostages earlier in the day, followed by seven more. All were received by Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the Internal Security Agency (ISA) inside Gaza.
The release coincided with the arrival of U.S. President Donald Trump in Israel, ahead of his participation in the Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt. Trump declared the war “over” and is expected to lead discussions with over 20 global leaders in Sharm El-Sheikh aimed at securing a lasting ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
In Tel Aviv, thousands gathered at Hostages Square, erupting in emotional scenes of celebration and mourning. While the return of the living hostages sparked joy, the absence of those who perished in captivity cast a somber shadow. Under the ceasefire terms, Hamas is also expected to return the bodies of 27 deceased hostages and the remains of an Israeli soldier killed in 2014.
In exchange, Israel is set to release nearly 2,000 detainees, including 250 security prisoners convicted of attacks, and approximately 1,700 individuals detained during the recent military operations in Gaza.
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem welcomed President Trump’s declaration ending the war and urged international mediators to ensure Israel does not resume military actions. “We call on all parties to monitor Israel’s conduct and prevent further aggression against our people in Gaza,” Qassem told AFP.
The hostage release and summit signal a critical juncture in the Gaza crisis, with hopes rising for a durable peace and humanitarian relief across the region.
