Tel Aviv Erupts In Cheers As Hamas Frees All 20 Israeli Hostages Under Ceasefire; Trump Welcomed In Israel

Tel Aviv witnessed jubilant scenes on Monday (13 October) as Hamas released all 20 Israeli hostages into the custody of the International Committee of the Red Cross.

The Hamas released 7 hostages at first, and later remaining 13 were also released. This marks a major step in a breakthrough ceasefire that ended two years of war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump arrived in Israel and was welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other top officals.

The released hostages in the first batch include Gali and Ziv Berman, Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, Omri Miran, Eitan Mor, and Guy Gilboa-Dallal, according to Israeli media reports.

Tens of thousands of Israelis gathered at public screenings across the country, breaking into loud cheers as the Red Cross escorted the hostages from northern Gaza.

The emotional release brings closure to a painful chapter that began with the October 2023 Hamas attack, which ignited the deadliest conflict the region has seen in years.

Israelis have expressed solidarity with the captives through yellow ribbons, weekly demonstrations, and public campaigns demanding their safe return.

Palestinians are simultaneously awaiting the release of hundreds of prisoners held by Israel.

The key exchange of hostages and prisoners follows a ceasefire brokered by US President Donald Trump, who is in the region along with other world leaders to discuss the peace plan and postwar reconstruction.

With Gaza left in ruins, humanitarian aid is expected to surge into the Palestinian enclave, where hundreds of thousands remain homeless. The hostages will first be handed over to the Red Cross and then transferred to Israel’s Reim military base for reunions with their families.

Israel has indicated that up to 28 other hostages who died in captivity will be located by an international task force if not returned within 72 hours.

The release of Palestinian prisoners, including those serving life sentences and those held without charge, is still pending. While Israel considers them terrorists, Palestinians regard them as freedom fighters.

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