Following their release, the hostages were transferred by the Red Cross to IDF and Shin Bet forces at various crossing points in Gaza.
Agam Berger was the first to be released, arriving at a reception center in southern Israel early in the morning, where she experienced an emotional reunion with her parents. Later, Arbel Yehud, Gadi Moses, and the five Thai nationals arrived at another reception center near the Gaza border. Medical teams conducted initial health assessments, while Red Cross representatives updated the families on the process.
Following their initial reception, the hostages were airlifted by IDF helicopters to hospitals across Israel, including Ichilov, Beilinson, Assaf Harofeh, and Sheba Medical Center. Medical teams have been prepared to provide both physical and psychological care to each of the released hostages.
The Berger family issued a statement following Agam’s release: “Thank God we have reached this moment, and our brave Agam has returned to us after 482 days in enemy hands. Our daughter is strong, faithful, and courageous. We wish to thank Israel’s security forces and the entire nation for their support and prayers. Now begins the process of recovery, but our mission will not be complete until every hostage is brought home.”
The Yehud Family: “Our Life’s Mission Has Succeeded”
The family of survivor Arbel Yehud also issued a heartfelt statement after her return to Israel: “Our life’s mission—to bring Arbel home—has succeeded, and we are overwhelmed with emotion. A long journey of family healing lies ahead. We are a bereaved family, forever grieving the loss of our beloved Dolev.”
The family expressed gratitude to those who played a role in Arbel’s release and to the Israeli public for their unwavering support: “We thank everyone who made Arbel’s release possible. We are deeply grateful for the thousands who have worked tirelessly to bring back all our loved ones and who refuse to give up, even after these long and difficult months.”
Gadi Moses: “I Will Do Everything to Rebuild Nir Oz”
Upon his return, 80-year-old Gadi Moses declared: “I will do everything in my power to rebuild Nir Oz.” His son, Yair, who had vowed not to shave until his father’s return, took to Instagram to share his joy: “Dad is back!!!”
Watch Gadi Moses reunite with his family:
Watch Five Thai hostages returning to Israel:
Israeli security and health officials have emphasized the need to respect the privacy of the released hostages and their families in the coming weeks. This guideline aims to facilitate their recovery and reintegration into daily life with the necessary medical and psychological care. Meanwhile, international efforts continue to secure the release of the remaining hostages still held in Gaza.
The IDF and Central Command are also preparing for the release of additional Palestinian prisoners as part of ongoing agreements. Simultaneously, Israeli security forces carried out overnight arrests across Judea and Samaria, focusing on areas where released terrorists are expected to return.
