Amanze Chinonye
Hamas has released the last group of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, marking the completion of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire and prisoner-exchange deal that has drawn international attention and cautious relief among families.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Monday evening that 20 remaining living hostages were transferred to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and later handed over to Israeli authorities under the supervision of Egyptian and Qatari mediators.
“The hostages are now on Israeli soil and undergoing medical evaluation before being reunited with their families,” the IDF said in an official statement.
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The release concludes nearly two years of captivity for dozens of Israelis seized by Hamas during its October 7, 2023, cross-border assault on southern Israel an attack that killed more than 1,200 people and led to the abduction of about 250 hostages, including children and foreign nationals.
Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange
Under the terms of the deal, Israel has released 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, including women and minors, as part of a reciprocal arrangement mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt.
The Israel Prison Service confirmed that the first set of Palestinian prisoners were freed early Monday under Red Cross supervision. Hamas also handed over the bodies of 28 deceased hostages, four of which were returned to Israel the same day.
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Emotional Reunions
Across Israel, scenes of relief played out as freed captives were welcomed by their families. At Sheba Medical Center near Tel Aviv, medical personnel and trauma specialists received the hostages for physical and psychological assessment.
“We’ve been waiting for this moment for two long years,” said Yarden Ben-Ami, whose sister was among those freed. “It’s a relief, but the pain for those who didn’t make it home will never fade.”
In Gaza, hundreds gathered at the Rafah crossing to welcome Palestinian prisoners released under the same agreement, waving flags and chanting in celebration.
International Reactions
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken described the final release as “a critical humanitarian milestone that should pave the way for sustained calm and broader peace efforts.”
Egypt and Qatar, both central to the negotiations, urged Israel and Hamas to maintain the fragile truce and open channels for long-term political dialogue.
The hostage crisis began after Hamas launched its October 2023 attack the deadliest in Israel’s history prompting a full-scale Israeli military offensive in Gaza. The ensuing conflict devastated much of the enclave, displacing hundreds of thousands and worsening an already dire humanitarian situation.
Partial hostage exchanges had occurred in November 2023, but talks repeatedly broke down over ceasefire violations and disputes regarding prisoner lists until this comprehensive deal was reached in October 2025.
Analysts told Prime Business Africa that this marks the 18th major prisoner exchange between Israel and Palestinian factions since 1985 and possibly the most extensive in scope.
Despite the latest release, both sides remain at odds over post-war governance in Gaza, reconstruction efforts, and future security guarantees.
For now, the end of the hostage ordeal represents a rare moment of relief amid a protracted conflict that has exacted immense human and political costs on both sides of the border.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
