In a significant breakthrough towards peace in the region, Hamas on Monday released 20 Israeli hostages as part of the Gaza ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement. According to information shared by the Red Cross, 13 hostages were officially handed over to its custody before being transferred to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet teams inside Gaza. Earlier in the day, Hamas had confirmed it would release 20 “living Israeli captives” in the first phase of the deal, describing the move as a commitment to the negotiated timelines — provided Israel also adheres to the terms of the agreement.

The IDF announced that seven more hostages, including Gali and Ziv Berman, Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, Omri Miran, Eitan Mor, and Guy Gilboa-Dallal, were safely reunited with Israeli forces. These individuals had been in Hamas captivity for over two years. Upon their return, the released hostages underwent initial medical evaluations and were greeted by IDF commanders, who expressed deep respect and relief at their safe recovery. The operation, titled “Returning Home,” marks one of the most coordinated hostage return missions since the beginning of the Gaza conflict.

In a statement, Hamas’ Al-Qassam Brigades said that the agreement was the result of “the steadfastness of our people and the resilience of our fighters,” while accusing Israel of delaying earlier prisoner exchanges. The IDF urged the public and media to act responsibly and respect the privacy of the returnees during this sensitive time. The Israeli military also confirmed preparations to receive additional hostages expected to be handed over to the Red Cross in the coming hours — a sign that further exchanges could follow if the ceasefire continues to hold.