By Innovation Times Middle East Affairs Desk
October 13, 2025 | Jerusalem
All remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas have been released after more than two years in captivity, in what Israeli officials are calling a defining moment in the nation’s history. The release follows the implementation of a landmark peace deal brokered by international mediators, marking a major step toward ending years of bloodshed and division between Israel and Gaza.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) confirmed the transfer of the final group of hostages from Gaza early Monday morning. The freed individuals were received by Israeli medical teams at the border and taken to hospitals for urgent care and reunification with their families. Officials said many of the former captives appeared frail and malnourished but were in stable condition.
“This is a moment of immense relief for the State of Israel,” said Prime Minister David Cohen during a national address. “After 738 days of fear and uncertainty, our people are finally home. We will never forget those who were lost, and we will continue to pursue lasting peace.”
The release came as part of a comprehensive peace framework mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United Nations. Under the agreement, Hamas committed to freeing all remaining hostages in exchange for the gradual easing of Israel’s blockade on Gaza, expanded humanitarian access, and coordinated efforts to rebuild critical infrastructure.
Hamas officials described the release as a “humanitarian gesture” tied to the peace process. Israeli military sources, however, said the operation required precise coordination and strong security guarantees to ensure the safety of those freed.
The United Nations Secretary-General praised the breakthrough as “a historic milestone toward reconciliation,” while the U.S. State Department commended the diplomatic efforts that led to the deal, calling it “a vital moment for regional stability.”
In cities across Israel, thousands gathered to celebrate the safe return of the captives. Crowds filled public squares in Tel Aviv, Haifa, and Jerusalem, waving flags, lighting candles, and singing as news spread that all surviving hostages were finally free. Families embraced as buses carrying the released hostages arrived at military bases and hospitals under heavy security.
The hostage crisis began in October 2023, when Hamas launched a large-scale attack that killed hundreds and resulted in the abduction of more than 200 people, including civilians, soldiers, and foreign nationals. Over the course of two years, several groups were released in partial ceasefire deals, while others perished in captivity. The final phase of negotiations, completed last week, secured the release of the last remaining survivors.
The peace deal’s next phase will focus on humanitarian relief and long-term reconstruction in Gaza. Convoys carrying food, medicine, and building materials have already begun crossing into the enclave under UN supervision.
“This agreement shows that peace is possible through persistence and dialogue,” said Leila Hamad, the UN’s special envoy for Middle East affairs. “The suffering of both Israelis and Palestinians must now give way to a future built on justice, security, and mutual respect.”
Analysts say the success of the peace deal will depend on continued cooperation and restraint from both sides. While many view the release as a triumph of diplomacy, officials warn that maintaining the fragile truce will require ongoing commitment and trust.
