Israel’s military has confirmed that the first three hostages released by Hamas have safely crossed into Israeli territory.
The hostages, identified as Doron Steinbrecher, 31, dual British-Israeli citizen Emily Damari, 28, and Romi Gonen, 24, were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza City before being transferred to Israeli military custody.
“A short while ago, accompanied by IDF and ISA forces, the released hostages crossed the border into Israeli territory,” the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated. “They are now at an initial reception point in southern Israel, where they will undergo medical assessments.”
The IDF also released footage of the emotional reunion between the hostages and their mothers at the Re’im military base near the Gaza Strip, highlighting the relief and joy of families after 15 months of separation.
In exchange for the three hostages, 90 Palestinian prisoners are expected to be released from Israeli custody. Live footage from outside Ofer Prison in the occupied West Bank showed Red Cross vehicles entering the facility to collect the prisoners.
Hamas, which controls Gaza, reportedly orchestrated the hostage transfer as part of a broader ceasefire agreement. The group aimed to reinforce its dominance in Gaza amid growing tensions and opposition from rival factions.
Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden addressed the ceasefire, calling it a significant step forward. “After so much pain, death, and loss of life, today the guns in Gaza have gone silent,” Biden said. He also stated that Hamas has been significantly weakened, with its leadership destabilized.
Experts warn that hostages returning from Gaza may face severe physical and psychological trauma. Prof. Hagai Levine of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum emphasized the multi-systemic health impacts of captivity, including malnutrition, infections, and mental health challenges. Israeli medical facilities are prepared to provide comprehensive care, with hostages being transported to hospitals across the country based on their condition.
This development marks the first stage of a negotiated hostage release that will continue in the coming weeks, as 33 hostages are expected to return to Israel.
