Summary
Seven hostages taken by Hamas have been released to Israel as part of a deal facilitated by the United States. The hostages arrived in Israel and were reunited with their families at a military base in southern Israel. This is part of efforts to return a total of 20 hostages and the remains of 28 others amid the ongoing conflict.
Key Facts
- Seven hostages were released by Hamas and returned to Israel under a U.S.-brokered deal.
- The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have named this operation "Operation Returning Home."
- The hostages were transferred to the Israeli military by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
- Twenty living hostages and the remains of 28 others are expected to return to Israel.
- The war in Gaza has been ongoing for over two years, following attacks on October 7, with approximately 1,200 Israelis killed.
- Hamas health authorities report over 67,000 people have died in Gaza since the conflict began, though this number is disputed by Israeli officials.
- Hostage returnees Matan Angrest and Alon Ohel were taken during the October 7 attacks and have been seen in Hamas-released videos before their return.
