7 hostages freed in Gaza-Israel ceasefire deal — What’s next for the remaining captives?

On October 13, 2025, a dramatic turn unfolded in the Gaza–Israel conflict: seven Israeli hostages were released by Hamas under the terms of a newly brokered ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal.

These seven are the first to return of the 20 known living hostages held in Gaza since the October 7, 2023 attack. Their release, accompanied by the handover of the bodies of 28 deceased captives, marks a critical step in a broader truce plan.

Who Are the Freed Hostages, And What Lies Ahead?

The released hostages, including Matan Angrest, Gali and Ziv Berman, Alon Ohel, Eitan Mor, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, and Omri Miran, have crossed into Israeli territory and will undergo medical evaluations before reuniting with loved ones.

Meanwhile, 13 other living hostages remain in Gaza, and their release is anticipated imminently under the deal. In parallel, Israel is preparing to release nearly 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, among them 250 serving life sentences, under the exchange agreement.

What Made This Exchange Possible?

Negotiations saw both sides exchange lists of hostages and prisoners, a significant trust-building step. The Israeli cabinet formally approved a Trump-proposed ceasefire agreement that laid down the framework for mutual releases and strategic withdrawals from certain sectors of Gaza.

This exchange is part of a broader Operation Shavim Legvulam (“Returning to Their Border”) that aims to bring back captives and deceased hostages under coordinated mediation by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar.

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What It Means on the Ground: Hope, Risk, and Tension

In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, tens of thousands erupted in cheers as news broke of the handovers. Yet even in celebration, many families still wait, haunted by uncertainty over those still held or lost.

Powerful moment in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square—cheers erupt as it was announced hostages had been safely returned to Israeli forces. 💛
pic.twitter.com/CJVsrEJUU9

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) October 13, 2025

Health is a grave concern, after nearly 800 days in captivity under dire conditions, many hostages may be malnourished, traumatized, or in poor physical state.

Moreover, the deal’s implementation raises political pressure. Will Israel follow through on prisoner releases? Will withdrawals and governance changes in Gaza hold? Tensions remain high.

Why This Hostage Deal Matters

1. Humanitarian milestone: After years of suffering, this is a rare moment of tangible relief.
2. Political gambit: The deal is a test of diplomatic leverage for the U.S. and regional brokers.
3. Security implications: Reintegrating former hostages or freed prisoners may affect internal stability and intelligence assessments.
4. Public morale: For many Israelis, it offers hope and emotional closure, even if incomplete.

Looking Ahead, What to Watch

• Will the remaining 13 living hostages be freed on schedule?
• Can the list exchange protocol be trusted and enforced long-term?
• How will Israel balance military withdrawal with security concerns in Gaza?
• Will the release spark renewed violence or push back from extremist factions?
• How will families be supported to heal, and how will freed hostages be rehabilitated medically and psychologically?

FAQ: 7 Hostages Freed in Gaza-Israel Ceasefire Deal

1. How many Israeli hostages have been released by Hamas in 2025?

As of October 13, 2025, Hamas has released seven Israeli hostages as part of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal. The group includes civilians and soldiers held in Gaza since the October 2023 attacks. This marks the first phase of a broader release involving 20 confirmed living hostages.

2. Who are the hostages released from Gaza so far?

The freed hostages are Matan Angrest, Gali and Ziv Berman, Alon Ohel, Eitan Mor, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, and Omri Miran. All have been transferred to Israeli care and are undergoing medical evaluation before reuniting with their families.

3. How many Israeli hostages remain in Gaza?

According to Israeli authorities, 13 hostages remain alive in Gaza. Their release is expected in the next phase of the agreement, though security and logistical delays could affect the timeline.

4. What is included in the new Gaza ceasefire deal?

The ceasefire agreement includes:

• The release of all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased.
• Exchange for nearly 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences.
• Gradual Israeli military withdrawal from specific Gaza sectors.
• International monitoring by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar to ensure compliance.

5. What role did Donald Trump play in the hostage release deal?

President Donald Trump personally proposed and pushed the Gaza ceasefire plan after weeks of diplomatic pressure. The plan facilitated the exchange by ensuring security guarantees for both sides and the involvement of mediators such as Qatar and Egypt.

6. How long were the hostages held in Gaza?

The released hostages were held for 783 days in harsh conditions following their capture during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. Many suffered physical and psychological trauma during captivity.

7. Are all the hostages safe and healthy after release?

Medical teams report that while the freed hostages are in stable condition, many show signs of malnutrition, dehydration, and severe trauma. Israel’s health ministry has deployed rehabilitation specialists and psychologists to assist in recovery.

8. What happens next for the remaining hostages and prisoners?

Negotiations are ongoing to ensure the safe release of the remaining 13 hostages. Simultaneously, Israel is expected to release additional Palestinian prisoners in phases to maintain the truce. The coming days are critical for both humanitarian and political reasons.

9. Why did Hamas agree to release the hostages now?

Hamas agreed under international pressure, humanitarian appeals, and the promise of reciprocal prisoner releases. The move also aims to ease internal Gaza tensions and secure relief aid amid worsening economic and social conditions.

10. How does the hostage deal impact Israel–Hamas relations?

While the release is a humanitarian breakthrough, it does not end hostilities. Both sides remain cautious. However, analysts say this could open channels for broader peace talks, depending on how faithfully each party upholds the truce.

11. Where did the first hostages arrive after release?

The freed hostages crossed into southern Israel via the Kerem Shalom crossing before being flown to hospitals in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Families and supporters gathered in Hostages Square to celebrate their return.

12. Will this ceasefire hold?

Experts remain divided. While both sides have shown commitment, militant factions and hardline elements could still destabilize the truce. Continuous international monitoring will be crucial in ensuring lasting calm.