when will hamas release hostages

Hamas is expected to release the remaining living hostages within 72 hours after the Israeli government approves the recent ceasefire and peace agreement. This means the release could start as early as Saturday or Monday, October 13, 2025. The deal was signed on October 8, 2025, and involves Hamas freeing all living hostages (about 20) and providing the bodies of deceased captives (around 28), while Israel will withdraw its forces to an agreed line in Gaza. President Trump, who played a key role in mediating this agreement, indicated on October 8 that hostages would "probably" be released on Monday, and Hamas officials have confirmed the timeline as 72 hours after Israeli cabinet approval, which was anticipated around October 9 or 10. The hostage release is part of the first phase of a broader peace plan aimed at ending the conflict.