The Israeli military has confirmed that the first seven of the remaining 20 living hostages held in Gaza have been released by Hamas after more than 783 days in captivity.
The release is part of a ceasefire deal brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, under which Hamas is expected to free all surviving hostages on Monday in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
The announcement came as Trump traveled to the region for a peace summit, declaring the Gaza war officially “over.”
“According to information provided by the Red Cross, seven hostages have been transferred into their custody and are on their way to IDF and ISA forces in the Gaza Strip,” the Israeli military stated. They added that additional releases are expected later in the day.
In Tel Aviv, celebrations broke out at Hostages Square as families and supporters reacted to the news. “I’m torn between emotion and sadness for those who won’t be coming back,” said Noga, one of those gathered.
Hamas had taken 251 hostages during its October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians. Most hostages were released during earlier truces, but 47 remained in captivity until now.
In Gaza, residents are also experiencing relief following the ceasefire, though the destruction left behind is immense. “I came back to Sheikh Radwan, and everything was gone,” said 38-year-old Fatima Salem. “Even so, I felt like I was home. We will pitch a tent and wait for reconstruction.”
Under the ceasefire terms, Israel will free around 2,000 Palestinian detainees in exchange for the hostages. Officials expect all 20 remaining hostages to be handed over to the Red Cross early Monday morning.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump expressed confidence in the truce: “I think it’s going to hold. People are tired of it. The war is over.”
Trump is scheduled to meet with the families of hostages and address the Knesset in Jerusalem during his visit.
