GAZA CITY: The Israel Defense Force (IDF) has confirmed receiving the first seven hostages released under the first phase of Trump’s ceasefire deal.
Seven returning hostages have now met IDF and Shin Bet forces in the Gaza Strip, and they are on their way to Israeli territory, IDF wrote in a statement published to X.
Israeli Prime Minister’s Office on Monday shared a personal message written by PM Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, for the returning hostages.
The PMO shared on X, “Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife Sara added a personal message for the returning hostages to the welcome kits prepared for them by the Prime Minister’s Office Hostages Authority and include clothing and personal equipment, a laptop computer, a cellphone and a tablet.”
Seven returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF and Shin Bet forces on their way back home, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment.
Hamas has said 20 living hostages will be exchanged for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
Families and friends of hostages broke out into wild cheers as Israeli television channels announced that the hostages were in the hands of the Red Cross.
Tens of thousands of Israelis are watching the transfers at public screenings across the country, with a major event being held in Tel Aviv.
The packed crowd in Hostages Square erupted in cheers as the names of the hostages to be released were read on local television. They clapped and chanted bring them home now.
Some held Israeli flags with the yellow hostage ribbon on it, others held posters with the faces of the hostages, some clutched their chest and choked back tears.
Meanwhile, Israel President Isaac Herzog said he will present the country’s highest civilian award to his US counterpart Donald Trump for his role in securing the release of hostages from Gaza and helping to end the war.
