Release of Hostages: A Significant Step in a Conflict Lasting Over Two Years
In a historic day for the region, the Palestinian group Hamas officially released all twenty hostages who had been held in captivity for over two years.
This event marks a crucial milestone in efforts to free captives and potentially reduce tensions in the area.
According to official sources, the release occurred through the Red Cross, which took custody of the remaining 13 hostages, confirming the agreement between the parties.
Among those released are notable individuals such as Evyatar David, Rom Braslavsky, Elkana Bobot, Avinatan Or, Yosef-Ha’im Ohana, and others.
Representatives of security forces, including the IDF, confirmed that all 20 individuals have now returned to Israeli territory and are reported to be in satisfactory condition.
Additionally, as part of the agreements, Hamas has committed to returning the bodies of 28 deceased captives, some of whom are expected to be handed over by noon on October 13.
However, difficulties have arisen in locating some of the bodies, which may delay the process.
Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, despite opposing certain elements of the deal, issued a video greeting celebrating the release of the first Israeli captives from Gaza and expressed gratitude for their safe return, representing a vital step toward strengthening national security.