In a significant development within the Israel-Palestine conflict, Hamas has begun the release of Israeli hostages, ushering in an unexpected glimmer of hope amid a tumultuous ceasefire initiative brokered by none other than former President Donald Trump.
On Monday, a total of seven Israeli hostages were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza, marking the inception of a U.S.-facilitated agreement aimed at promoting peace through a prisoner exchange.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced via X that, “According to information provided by the Red Cross, seven hostages have been transferred into their custody and are on their way to IDF and ISA forces in Gaza.” They further stated, “The IDF is prepared to receive additional hostages who are expected to be transferred to the Red Cross later on.”
They’re coming home. pic.twitter.com/HsjiXrvIDP
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 13, 2025
In reciprocity, Israel has confirmed plans to release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, many of whom have been convicted of serious offenses. This exchange raises significant questions about balancing justice and humanitarian concerns in a deeply divided region.
Hamas has also published the names of 20 living hostages as part of this initial phase of the deal, according to Reuters. The IDF acknowledged the safe return of seven individuals: Alon Ohel, Eitan Mor, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Ziv and Gali Berman, Omri Miran, and Matan Angrest.
These individuals were among those taken captive during the events of October, and their return has been met with both relief and celebration. The IDF shared, “The returning hostages, Eitan Mor, Alon Ohel, Ziv Berman, Gali Berman, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Omri Miran, and Matan Angrest, accompanied by IDF and ISA forces, crossed the border into the State of Israel a short while ago. They are currently on their way to the initial reception point in southern Israel, where they will reunite with their families.”
Operation “Returning Home”
The returning hostages, Eitan Mor, Alon Ohel, Ziv Berman, Gali Berman, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Omri Miran and Matan Angrest, accompanied by IDF and ISA forces, crossed the border into the State of Israel a short while ago.
They are currently on their way…
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 13, 2025
The Israeli government has released photographs of the returning hostages, adding a human touch to what is often a politically charged discourse. Let’s delve deeper into the backgrounds of those who have returned.
“Eitan Abraham Mor, 25, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, from the Nova music festival where he worked. Born and lives in Jerusalem, he is the eldest of Efrat & Tzvika Mor’s 8 children. He is a barista in Jerusalem and shares a close bond with his dog. Before his abduction, he notably assisted others during the attack, facilitating evacuations under perilous circumstances. His family vigorously campaigned for his release.”
Welcome Home, Eitan Abraham Mor
Eitan Abraham Mor, 25, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, from the Nova music festival where he worked.
Born and lives in Jerusalem, he is the eldest of Efrat & Tzvika Mor’s 8 children.He is a barista in Jerusalem and has a deep connection to… pic.twitter.com/5yFem2YXEd
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) October 13, 2025
Gali, 28, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023 from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, alongside his twin brother Ziv.
Working as light & sound technicians, they often collaborated and were nearly inseparable—until cruel captivity tore them apart.
Their family, including two older brothers, has tirelessly maintained public awareness of their situation, fighting for their safe return.
Welcome Home, Gali Berman
Gali, 28, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023 from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, as was his twin brother Ziv.
He and Ziv worked as light & sound technicians and often traveled together.
They were very close, almost inseparable but held apart in cruel… pic.twitter.com/YuO1QZ0rgK
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) October 13, 2025
Ziv, 28, was likewise kidnapped on October 7, 2023 from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Together with Gali, he shared a professional life as a light and sound technician, often contributing to Israel’s spirited “Festigal” events.
Described by friends as reserved yet passionate, Ziv has shown a love for life even in the face of adversity. His family campaigned fervently for his return, keeping his name visible in national dialogues.
Welcome Home, Ziv Berman
Ziv, 28, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023 from Kibbutz Kfar Aza as was his twin brother, Gali.
He and Gali worked together as light and sound technicians, often collaborating on music and event projects.
Ziv and Gali also work on Israel’s… pic.twitter.com/bQnuQ3TEpo
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) October 13, 2025
Omri, 48, hailing from Kibbutz Nahal Oz, was taken from his home on October 7, 2023, witnessed by his family. Known for his strong family ties, he is married with two daughters. Videos released during his captivity painted a grim picture, showing him pleading for his life.
Through his family’s unwavering efforts, they have kept hope alive, focusing on any signs of his well-being amidst the darkness.
Welcome Home, Omri Miran
Omri, 48, from Kibbutz Nahal Oz, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023 from his home in front of his family.
He is married to Lishay. They have 2 young daughters.
Videos released by Hamas show him in dire conditions, pleading to return home.He is… pic.twitter.com/UYuFsE8a71
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) October 13, 2025
Alon, 24, was also seized during the appalling events of October 7, 2023, from a bomb shelter at the Nova music festival. Tragically, he endured severe injuries, including potential loss of vision. Reports describe Alon as having been held under nightmarish conditions, fighting to maintain his spirit as a talented musician.
Welcome Home, Alon Ohel
Alon, 24, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023 from a bomb shelter at the Nova music festival.
Alon suffered serious injuries, including the loss of vision in one eye. His second eye is also at risk.
Released hostages confirmed Alon was held under… pic.twitter.com/G53OQa8Zhg
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) October 13, 2025
Guy, 24, also a victim of the October 7 kidnappings at the Nova music festival, shares a tragic story. His brother Gal, who managed to escape, has become his outspoken advocate. Guy’s passion for Japanese culture and anime are well known, yet his time in captivity has taken a severe toll on him, leaving him partially deaf due to extreme conditions.
Welcome Home, Guy Gilboa-Dalal
Guy, 24, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023 from the Nova music festival, where he and his lifelong friend Evyatar David were kidnapped together.
His brother Gal escaped that morning and became one of his fiercest advocates.
Before his… pic.twitter.com/s10jeJhAuA
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) October 13, 2025
Matan, 22, was seized from his tank near Nahal Oz. He has displayed exceptional resilience, balancing responsibilities with his passion for sports. From making a name in Hapoel Haifa’s youth soccer team to facing his asthma challenges as he served in a combat unit, Matan’s unwavering love for his country has shone through his family’s zealous advocacy for his release.
Welcome Home, Matan Angrest
Matan, 22, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7 from his tank near Nahal Oz.
Matan is a devoted son and brother to 3 siblings. Known for his kind spirit, determination and love of sports. He once played for Hapoel Haifa’s youth soccer team and is an… pic.twitter.com/QkOjUjVf2e
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) October 13, 2025
This is a developing story.
