After more than two years, Israel anticipates the release of 48 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. Of these, 20 are believed to be alive, while 25 have died, and the status of three remains uncertain. The hostages were taken during the Hamas assault on October 7, 2023, when 251 people were abducted from Israel. Since then, 148 hostages have returned safely, 140 were released, and eight were rescued by the Israeli Defence Forces. Bodies of deceased hostages have also been returned by Hamas. 
The Gaza Strip seen from the Israeli border
Israeli and Foreign Nationals Among Hostages
Most of those still held are Israeli nationals. Four foreign citizens remain in captivity: two from Thailand, one from Tanzania, and one from Nepal. Three of these foreign nationals have been confirmed dead, while the fate of the Nepalese citizen Bipin Joshi remains unknown, prompting serious concern from the Israeli government. All of the hostages believed alive are male; among the deceased is one female hostage.
Hostages from Various Backgrounds and Locations
Among the remaining hostages are two Israeli conscript soldiers, Matan Angrest, 22, and Nimrod Cohen, 20. Several hostages were abducted from the Nova Music Festival near Kibbutz Reim, including the pianist Alon Ohel and Evyatar David, who was filmed digging his own grave. Other hostages were taken from homes near the Gaza border, such as twins Gali and Ziv Berman and brothers Ariel and David Cunio. Some families of hostages have already been reunited after earlier releases.
Hostages are set to return after 2 years in captivity
Hostage Return Operation Underway
The Israeli Defence Forces launched Operation Returning Home to bring back hostages held by Hamas. Israeli authorities have prepared to receive the returning hostages immediately. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israel is ready to receive all hostages without delay. He described the occasion as an emotional evening of tears and joy, marking children’s return to the border.
The Israeli military has pulled back from urban areas in Gaza but is still inside the strip
International Involvement and Humanitarian Efforts
The hostages are expected to be transferred to Israel via the International Committee of the Red Cross. Medical teams stand by to provide urgent care to hostages after prolonged captivity. The operation forms part of a ceasefire agreement that also includes the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners by Israel. These prisoners include about 1,700 detained from Gaza without formal charges and others convicted over attacks on Israelis.
US Role and Diplomatic Developments
US President Donald Trump played a key role in brokering the ceasefire and hostage release agreement. He arrived in Israel to meet hostages’ families and address the Israeli parliament. Trump will then travel to Egypt’s Sharm El-Sheikh for a major peace summit involving regional and global leaders. Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced he will award Trump Israel’s highest civilian honour for his efforts in securing the hostages’ release and fostering peace.
US President Donald Trump has boarded Air Force One for his flight to Israel
Uncertainty Over Deceased Hostages’ Remains
Israel formally declared 26 hostages dead following forensic analysis and intelligence reviews. Hamas has noted that recovering the remains may take time since not all burial sites are known. An international body is expected to assist in locating and returning the bodies if they are not released alongside living hostages. The remains include one Israeli soldier killed during the 2014 Israel-Hamas conflict.
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Public Reaction and Expectations
Thousands gathered in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square, awaiting news of the release. They showed strong support for former President Trump, widely credited for his role in the peace efforts. Some expressed frustration and criticised the Israeli government for delays, suggesting earlier action could have saved more lives and lessened the conflict’s toll. Officials continue to communicate hopes for a safer and stronger future while acknowledging the complex challenges ahead.
US President Donald Trump hailed by the Israelis in Tel Aviv
Looking Ahead: Peace Plan and Regional Stability
The hostage release marks a crucial step in the fragile ceasefire and broader peace plan. Discussions continue about forming a new governing board for Gaza to oversee the post-conflict period. The peace summit in Egypt aims to sign a document to formally end the Gaza war and lay the foundation for cooperation and security in the region. The coming days will be pivotal for sustaining momentum toward lasting peace.
- 48 hostages expected to be released; 20 alive, 25 deceased, 3 uncertain
- 251 hostages abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023
- 148 hostages previously returned to Israel
- 4 foreign nationals among hostages; 3 deceased, 1 unknown status
- Nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners to be freed as part of ceasefire
- Israel prepared to receive hostages at Reim military base
- US President Trump visits Israel and Egypt for peace summit
These developments represent an important advance in resolving one of the region’s most protracted conflicts. The international community watches closely as peace negotiations unfold and families reunite after long separation.
