Historic Gaza Hostage Release Concludes After 738 Days of Captivity

After 738 days in captivity, the final 20 living Israeli hostages held by Hamas have been freed. The release on Monday marks a pivotal moment in a conflict that began with a deadly attack on October 7, 2023. The handover was overseen by the International Committee of the Red Cross. It was part of a broader ceasefire deal brokered with U.S. involvement.

In return, Israel is releasing more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. This exchange represents the most significant breakthrough in the region for years. The deal also initiates a massive influx of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.

Ceasefire Deal Follows Intense Negotiations

The hostage release was a multi-phase operation. Hamas handed the first group of seven hostages to the Red Cross on Monday morning. The remaining 13 were transferred later the same day.

According to the Associated Press, the Israeli military confirmed all 20 had crossed back into Israel. They are now undergoing initial medical evaluations. The remains of up to 28 other hostages believed to have died in Gaza were not part of this initial exchange.

In a coordinated move, buses transported nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli facilities. Reuters reported that most were scheduled for release at Gaza’s Nasser Hospital. This large-scale prisoner swap is a core component of the fragile truce.

Global Leaders Hail Breakthrough and Look to Future

The ceasefire has drawn international praise and support. U.S. President Donald Trump, who played a key role in the negotiations, traveled to Israel to meet with hostage families. He later addressed the Israeli Knesset, urging a lasting peace.

“This is their chance to turn forever from the path of terror and violence,” Trump stated in his speech. He also promised U.S. support to help rebuild Gaza. His visit underscores the high-stakes diplomatic effort behind the deal.

World leaders quickly welcomed the development. Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended the “unwavering peace efforts of President Trump.” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer offered UK assistance in monitoring the ceasefire. He cited Britain’s experience from the Northern Ireland peace process.

This successful hostage release ends a painful chapter for dozens of families. The focus now shifts to maintaining the truce and addressing the immense humanitarian needs in Gaza. The world watches to see if this historic Gaza hostage release can become a lasting foundation for peace.

Info at your fingertips

How many hostages were released by Hamas?

Hamas released 20 living Israeli hostages. This was the final group of surviving captives held since the 2023 attack.

What did Israel give in exchange for the hostages?

Israel agreed to release more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. The deal also allows for hundreds of aid trucks to enter Gaza daily.

What role did the US play in the ceasefire?

President Donald Trump was central to brokering the deal. He visited Israel to meet families and gave a speech at the Knesset supporting the agreement.

What is the international reaction to the hostage release?

Global leaders have widely welcomed the move. Figures like PM Modi and UK’s Keir Starmer have praised the peace efforts and pledged support.

What happens to the Palestinian prisoners after release?

Most prisoners were transported to Gaza or the West Bank. An Egyptian official told AP that 154 were sent to Egypt and will be relocated to third countries.