Were Israeli hostages released today? Yes — in a landmark deal on October 13, 2025, all 20 living Israeli hostages held in Gaza were handed over by Hamas as part of a broader ceasefire agreement.
Final Hostages Returned Under Ceasefire Deal
Hamas delivered the remaining hostages to the Red Cross, which then transferred them to Israeli authorities. Israel confirmed that all living hostages identified in the agreement are now back on Israeli soil. The handover was a central component of the ceasefire, and the release was celebrated across the country.
Earlier that day, Hamas published the names of those to be released, including both civilians and soldiers abducted during the October 7, 2023 attack. In exchange, Israel is to release over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners.
How the Release Took Place
The exchange occurred in two phases:
- The first group of seven hostages emerged from northern Gaza in Red Cross vehicles, escorted to the border.
- Later, the remaining 13 hostages were transferred from southern Gaza.
- All hostages were flown or escorted into Israel, where they were received by officials, medical teams, and family members in Tel Aviv’s “Hostages Square,” where thousands had gathered to witness the event.
- President Donald Trump, who helped broker the agreement, addressed legislators, calling the day “historic” and declaring the war “over.”
The emotional reunions were broadcast nationwide, with tears, hugs, and long-awaited embraces marking the end of a painful chapter.
Background: Hostage Crisis & Negotiations
On October 7, 2023, Hamas-led militants invaded southern Israel, killing over 1,200 people and abducting more than 250, including civilians and soldiers. Over the following months and years, Israel secured occasional releases and carried out rescue attempts, but dozens remained in captivity.
Ceasefire negotiations intensified in recent weeks, involving U.S., Egyptian, and Qatari mediation. The agreement stipulated that Hamas must release all hostages within 72 hours of partial Israeli withdrawal, and Israel would free thousands of prisoners in return.
In the lead-up to the final transfer, Israel and Hamas exchanged lists of hostages and prisoners. Supporting elements of the deal include the recovery of remains of deceased hostages and humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Immediate and Long-Term Impacts
- The release provides closure for many Israeli families and represents a major symbolic win for Israel.
- Releasing over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners will significantly alter the dynamics inside Israeli prisons and spark diplomatic debates.
- The conditions of the ceasefire require Hamas’ cooperation in disarmament and governance changes—areas that remain contentious.
- Regional watchers see this moment as a test for lasting peace, with many tactical and operational steps still ahead.
The question were Israeli hostages released is answered decisively: all living captives are home. But the path toward sustained stability remains uncertain, and the world will watch closely as this fragile peace takes shape.