Hostage Release Countdown Begins as Israel Approves Deal with Hamas
The Israeli government is set to officially start the return of 48 hostages held by Hamas for over two years. This announcement follows a late-night agreement reached among Israeli officials, with mediation from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the U.S. The deal is expected to be approved in a government meeting on Thursday morning.
After the deal is approved, a ceasefire will take effect within 24 hours. Hamas will then have 72 hours to release the 20 living hostages, along with the 28 deceased. The release is planned to occur discreetly and without public ceremonies.
Challenges remain for Hamas, as they indicated it might be difficult to quickly locate all the deceased, many of whom may be trapped under debris.
Once the government gives the green light, the Israel Defense Forces will begin a phased withdrawal from Gaza while maintaining a presence in 53% of the region until all hostages are accounted for, both dead and alive.
In conjunction with the hostage release, Israel will also free around 1,700 Gazans detained after the October 2023 attacks, as well as about 250 Palestinians serving life sentences. Notably, this release will not include members of Hamas’s Nukhba force, linked to the attacks or other high-profile commanders.
Hostages could begin returning as soon as Saturday, with preparations already underway to receive them. Many of these individuals have experienced severe conditions during their captivity, including starvation and lack of medical care.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the agreement, asserting it represents a significant diplomatic achievement for Israel. He expressed gratitude towards U.S. President Trump for his role in facilitating the deal.
The plan aims to ensure the safe return of all released hostages by Sunday, with arrangements in place for the deceased to be returned starting Monday. Special accommodations have been made at the Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv to provide medical and psychological support for the hostages as they transition back to life after their harrowing experiences.
The recovery plan is structured into five stages, drawing from past experiences to support the mental and physical well-being of the returning hostages. This comprehensive approach includes immediate post-release care, hospital stays, a transition phase, and long-term assistance.
President Trump is expected to arrive in Israel on Sunday.
