The hostages held by Hamas are expected to be released on Monday, October 13, 2025, according to announcements made by President Donald Trump and senior Hamas officials. The deal reached includes Israel withdrawing its forces to an agreed-upon line in Gaza, which, once completed, will be followed by Hamas releasing the hostages within 72 hours. The release will include both living hostages and the bodies of deceased captives, marking a significant step in the peace plan to end the conflict in Gaza.
Details of the Hostage Release Agreement
- Israel and Hamas have agreed on a phased approach: Israel's military withdrawal is expected to be completed within 24 hours following cabinet approval, then Hamas will have 72 hours to release the hostages.
- The agreement is part of President Trump's 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the two-year war.
- Approximately 48 hostages remain to be released, with around 20 still alive and the bodies of about 25 others also held by Hamas.
- Hamas has indicated that recovering the remains of deceased hostages will take additional time due to the complex situation on the ground.
- President Trump is expected to make an official announcement declaring the end of the war preceding the hostages' release.
Timing and Process
- The Israeli cabinet is to approve the deal soon, and this final approval triggers the timeline for withdrawal and release.
- Hostage release is anticipated no later than Monday, providing families and the international community hope after two years of captivity for many.
- The process includes the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails following the hostage release phase.
In summary, all living and deceased hostages held by Hamas are expected to be released starting Monday, October 13, 2025, conditioned on the completion of military withdrawal and final deal approvals.