JOY IN ISRAEL AS GAZA HOSTAGES RELEASED

 Hostages-prisoners swap deal between Hamas and Israel 

Joy in Israel as Gaza hostages released ​

The final 20 living hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have returned to Israel after more than two years in captivity.

By Nathan Morley

The final 20 living hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have returned to Israel after more than two years in captivity.

The hostages were abducted during Hamas’ 2023, attacks.

One of them, Eitan Mor, was reunited with his family in a moment broadcast live on Israeli television.

Hamas has not released the remains of up to 28 hostages believed to be dead. A group representing hostage families said four bodies were expected to be returned Monday.

In exchange, Israel began releasing 250 Palestinian prisoners and more than 1,700 detainees.

The first groups arrived in Ramallah and Gaza under Red Cross supervision.

Earlier, President Donald Trump, who helped broker the cease-fire, addressed Israel’s parliament.

Now, Mr. Trump is traveling to Egypt for a peace summit in Sharm el-Sheikh.

The summit is expected to draw leaders from more than 20 countries, including U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres.

Talks will focus on ending hostilities in Gaza and advancing regional peace efforts.

A cease-fire between Israel and Hamas took effect Friday after three days of negotiations mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye and the United States.

Gaza’s health ministry said more than 67,000 people have died during two years of Israeli military operations. Officials also reported widespread famine across the territory.

 

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/world/news/2025-10/joy-in-israel-as-gaza-hostages-released.html