Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to convene his political-security cabinet "as soon as possible" to determine Israel’s next course of action, following the expiration of President Donald Trump’s noon deadline for Hamas to release all remaining hostages.
"The reinforcement of IDF forces around the Gaza Strip, combined with President Trump’s firm stance, resulted in the release of three of our hostages today—despite Hamas initially refusing to do so," Netanyahu stated. "The Prime Minister also appreciates the President's unwavering support for Israel’s future decisions regarding Gaza."
Earlier this week, Hamas accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement, alleging that it had delayed the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza, targeted them with gunfire, and restricted aid deliveries. Hamas initially postponed the hostage-prisoner exchange but later confirmed it would proceed.
On Saturday, Hamas released three additional Israeli hostages as part of the ongoing ceasefire deal.
Trump, meanwhile, reaffirmed his noon deadline, warning that any failure to release all hostages would leave Israel free to decide whether to resume military action.
"Israel will now have to decide how to respond to the 12:00 O’CLOCK, TODAY, DEADLINE for the release of ALL HOSTAGES. The United States will stand behind whatever decision they make!" Trump posted on his social media platform.
The hostages released on Saturday were identified as:
Upon crossing the Israeli border, the freed hostages were taken to a reception center in southern Israel, where they were reunited with their families.
In response to Hamas releasing three Israeli hostages, Israel freed 369 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday, most of whom were detained in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, terror attack.
A statement from the IDF confirmed that the hostages were being escorted back to Israeli territory by special forces and would undergo an initial medical evaluation.
"The commanders and soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces salute and embrace the returning hostages as they make their way home," the statement read. "The IDF Spokesperson’s Unit asks everyone to respect the privacy of the hostages and their families."
IDF medical and personnel officers accompanied the hostages to the hospital, where their families were waiting and being updated by military officials.
"We have prepared for their return and, together with their families, will support their recovery after the long and grueling days in captivity," the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.
Netanyahu also accused Hamas of attempting to derail the agreement with false claims. "Thanks to our military presence around the Strip and President Trump’s clear and direct stance, Hamas backed down, allowing the hostage release to proceed," the statement continued.
"We remain in full coordination with the United States to ensure the return of all our hostages—both alive and deceased—as quickly as possible. At the same time, we are fully prepared to act on all fronts, should the need arise."
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