GAZA STRIP/TEL AVIV, October 13(HS): As part of an ongoing ceasefire agreement, the militant group Hamas transferred seven Israeli hostages to the Red Cross in Gaza on Monday, with 13 more expected to be released later in the day. The development sparked emotional scenes across Israel, where families and citizens gathered in anticipation of their return after nearly two years of conflict.
The released hostages were identified as Gali Berman, Ziv Berman, Eitan Abraham Mor, Omri Miran, Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, and Gilboa-Dalal. Red Cross officials confirmed they have taken custody of the group and were en route to hand them over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Family homes of the released individuals saw large, emotional gatherings as relatives wept and awaited their arrival.In Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square, the government arranged a live broadcast from Gaza on a giant screen. Crowds watched intently, erupting in applause and cheers while waving flags and posters bearing images of the hostages. Some family members are waiting at the Re’im military air base, where the former captives are expected to be brought first.
The next group of hostages is scheduled for release from Khan Younis and other areas. While Israel had initially indicated a 9 a.m. release, the timing was delayed by an hour for reasons that remain unclear. The delay coincides with the expected arrival of US President Donald Trump in Israel.
Tel Aviv has been adorned with decorations to welcome the hostages home. Banners and artwork line the streets around the hospitals where they will receive initial medical care: Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan, Tel Aviv Sourasky (Ichilov) Medical Center, and Beilinson Medical Center in Petah Tikva.
One banner reads, Finally home! while another states, We have been waiting for you.The agreement includes the release of Palestinian prisoners. The list features Ahmed Mahmad Jamil Shahada, a Gaza resident convicted of the 1989 rape and murder of a teenager. Although his crime was not deemed a terrorist act by the court, he was considered eligible for release. Approximately 250 Palestinian prisoners are set to be freed in exchange for 48 Israeli civilians.
Late Sunday, the Israeli government conducted a telephone vote to approve last-minute changes, deeming two prisoners on the list ineligible.Meanwhile, the humanitarian toll of the war is stark.
Since the ceasefire began on Friday, at least 295 bodies have been recovered from the rubble in Gaza. According to United Nations estimates, Israeli attacks have damaged or destroyed over 430,000 homes, creating 61 million tons of debris. A Gaza Civil Defense spokesperson stated Saturday that an estimated 10,000 Palestinians are still believed to be buried under the rubble.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
