The long-awaited return of seven hostages held by Hamas finally took place today. Israeli captives Arbel Yehud and Gadi Moses, along with five Thai citizens who were kidnapped during the October 7th attack, were released and safely escorted into Israel. Earlier in the morning, IDF observer Agam Berger, who was abducted from Nahal Oz, was also freed and had an emotional reunion with her family.<\/p>\n
Timeline of the Hostage Release:<\/strong><\/p>\n 16:21: Arbel Yehud is airlifted by the Israeli Air Force (IAF) to a hospital, where she will meet more family members and receive medical treatment. Arbel Yehud and Gadi Moses will soon reunite with their families.<\/strong><\/p>\n The five Thai nationals will meet with representatives from the Thai government. The IDF Spokesperson stated: “IDF representatives are also supporting the families waiting at the hospital, providing them with continuous updates.”<\/p>\n 1:39 PM: Seven freed hostages transferred to IDF and Shin Bet forces in Gaza 1:15 PM: IDF & Shin Bet: Seven Hostages Transferred to the Red Cross 1:13 PM: Agam Berger arrives at the hospital. 12:50 PM: Agam Berger airlifted to hospital.
\n16:06: Gadi Moses and the five Thai hostages board an IAF helicopter bound for hospitals. Thai government representatives will accompany their citizens for support and medical care.
\n2:23 PM: Freed hostages arrive at reception site near the Gaza border
\nThe freed hostages Arbel Yehud, Gadi Moses, and five Thai nationals have arrived at the initial reception point in southern Israel, near the Gaza border.
\nThe IDF Personnel Directorate and military medical teams are accompanying the returnees, who will undergo an initial medical evaluation.<\/p>\n
\nThe IDF Spokesperson confirmed: “The seven returning hostages are now escorted by an elite IDF unit and Shin Bet forces on their way to Israel, where they will undergo an initial medical evaluation. IDF commanders and soldiers salute and embrace them as they make their way home.” <\/p>\n
\nA joint statement from the IDF and Shin Bet confirmed that seven hostages\u2014including one Israeli man, one Israeli woman, and five foreign nationals\u2014have been handed over to the Red Cross and are currently en route to IDF forces in Gaza.<\/p>\n
\nIsrael\u2019s Ministry of Health announced Agam Berger’s arrival at the hospital, stating: “Medical teams and professionals are fully prepared to provide any necessary physical, psychological, or other care required. We urge the public to respect the privacy of the returning hostages and their families, ensuring their smooth reintegration into civilian life and recovery.”<\/p>\n
\nThe IDF Spokesperson reported that Agam Berger and her parents were flown to the hospital by Israeli Air Force helicopter, where she will reunite with the rest of her family and undergo medical treatment.<\/p>\n