Hamas Begins Releasing Israeli Hostages as Trump Lands in Israel – Historic Gaza Ceasefire Deal

Hamas Begins Releasing Israeli Hostages as Trump Lands in Israel

Jerusalem, October 13, 2025 —
In a major breakthrough under a U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal, Hamas has begun releasing the first group of Israeli hostages after two years in captivity — coinciding with the arrival of U.S. President Donald Trump in Israel to oversee implementation of a historic truce and prisoner-exchange agreement.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that seven hostages were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross and later transported safely into Israeli territory for medical evaluation and reunions with their families.

Among those freed are Alon Ohel, Gali Berman, Ziv Berman, Matan Engerst, Guy Gilboa Dalal, Eitan Mor, and Omri Miran, according to official Israeli statements verified by multiple international media outlets.

Miran’s family expressed relief, saying:

“After two long years of waiting, he is finally home, embraced by his children Roni and Alma.”

This release marks the first phase of a broader deal in which Israel will reportedly free more than 1,900 Palestinian detainees, including women and minors, in exchange for the safe return of Israeli hostages and the remains of deceased captives. Negotiations continue for subsequent phases that may involve additional releases and humanitarian guarantees.

Earlier this week, the Israeli Cabinet formally approved President Trump’s ceasefire plan, outlining a phased truce between Israel and Hamas, coordinated humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza, and a joint international monitoring mechanism to ensure compliance by both sides.

A Hamas spokesperson described the move as “a positive step toward lasting peace,” while emphasizing that Israel must uphold its commitments and ease the blockade on Gaza for progress to continue.

Upon landing at Ben Gurion Airport, President Trump was welcomed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump told reporters:

“This is just the beginning of peace. The release of hostages marks the dawn of a new Middle East — one built on strength, trust, and humanity.”

Trump is scheduled to address the Israeli Knesset and then travel to Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, where an international peace summit will convene to consolidate regional support for the ceasefire and discuss the future governance of Gaza.

In Gaza City, Hamas security units maintained a strong presence as the exchange took place, while thousands of Palestinians gathered to celebrate the partial end of violence and hope for long-term stability.

Analysts caution that the peace process remains fragile. Key issues — including Hamas disarmament, Gaza reconstruction, and the political status of Palestinian territories — still await resolution.

Despite these challenges, October 13, 2025, may be remembered as a historic turning point — a cautious yet hopeful step toward peace in the Middle East.