Israel receives seven hostages freed from Gaza, more expected later

Seven Israeli hostages who were recently released have met with representatives of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Service in the Gaza Strip and are now en route to Israel.

The update was confirmed in a joint statement from the IDF and the Israel Security Service, published on the IDF’s official Telegram channel.

“The seven released hostages are currently being escorted by IDF and Israel Security Service personnel on their way to Israel, where they will undergo initial medical examinations. IDF commanders and soldiers are welcoming and embracing the returning hostages as they come home,” the statement said.

The Israel Defence Forces Press Service urged the public to act responsibly and respectfully, asking that the privacy of the returning hostages be preserved and that only official information be relied upon.

The statement also noted that the IDF is prepared to receive additional hostages, who are expected to be handed over to the Red Cross at a later time.

By Tamilla Hasanova