Israeli hostages released October 2025 marked a dramatic end to a 737-day ordeal as Hamas freed all 20 surviving captives held in Gaza under a landmark ceasefire agreement brokered by US President Donald Trump. The Gaza ceasefire deal brought emotional scenes across Israel as families reunited with loved ones captured during the October 7, 2023 attack.
First Seven Hostages Handed Over to Red Cross
The Hamas prisoner exchange began Monday morning when the first seven hostages were transferred to Red Cross officials in Gaza. Twin brothers Ziv and Gali Berman, along with Eitan Mor, Alon Ohel, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Omri Miran, and Matan Angrest were immediately transported to Israeli military custody. The remaining 13 captives followed within hours, completing the historic Simchat Torah hostage return on the second anniversary of the devastating attack.
All released individuals are men primarily in their 20s and 30s who endured more than two years in captivity. The Israeli military operation transported them via helicopter from southern Israel to medical facilities in Tel Aviv for comprehensive health assessments before family reunions.
Trump Peace Agreement Delivers Results
President Trump arrived in Israel Monday to celebrate his diplomatic achievement, meeting with hostage families and addressing the Knesset. The Trump peace agreement required Israel to release approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners released in exchange for the 20 living hostages. This includes 250 individuals serving life sentences and 1,700 people captured from Gaza who were held without formal charges.
The deal also obligates Hamas to return the remains of 28 deceased hostages, though the organization claims it cannot locate all of them. Trump’s visit to the Israel-Gaza ceasefire 2025 zone demonstrates his commitment to ending the two-year Israel hostage crisis that captivated global attention.
Massive Celebrations Across Israel
Tens of thousands of Israelis gathered at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, watching the Red Cross transfer on giant screens. Crowds erupted in cheers and waved Israeli flags as news broke of each successful handover. The emotional scenes reflected the nation’s collective relief after years of demanding government action to secure their release.
President Trump will proceed to Egypt to host a Gaza peace summit in Sharm El-Sheikh with over 20 world leaders. The summit aims to establish Gaza’s future governance structure and advance regional peace initiatives following the October 7 attack anniversary milestone.
The historic release represents the culmination of intense diplomatic efforts and marks a potential turning point in Middle East peace negotiations, according to Al Jazeera coverage of the ceasefire developments.
