In the imminent release of 13 captives held by Hamas in Gaza, as part of a four-day truce accord, Israel declares its complete preparedness. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) assert that the hostages will undergo medical treatment before reunification with their families.
Close to the moment of the hostage release, the Israeli Air Force disseminated a video compilation revealing items such as toys, throw-rugs, and personal hygiene kits strategically positioned at the locations designated for the hostages’ arrival via helicopter.
The IDF’s video documentation unveiled meticulous preparations, encompassing towels, sanitary pads, hot nourishment, beverages, baby wipes, playthings for children, expansive seating areas for the hostages, and a standby helicopter.
“We have finalized arrangements for the reception of the released hostages upon their return from Gaza to Israel. In collaboration with governmental ministries and security entities, we stand prepared to promptly welcome the liberated hostages, offering them comprehensive support,” conveyed the IDF in its statement on X.
“We have established several dedicated sites for their initial reception, equipped with essential medical provisions. Following the initial welcome and medical attention, their journey will continue to hospitals where they will be joyously reunited with their families,” the statement added.
Hamas is anticipated to transfer the group to neighboring Egypt in exchange for 39 Palestinians held in Israeli penitentiaries, constituting part of a provisional ceasefire in Gaza today.
An air force lieutenant colonel expressed optimism, stating, “Today marks the first glimmer at the end of the tunnel,” in a video briefing reported by Reuters. “We are all united in this endeavor.”
A military communique urged the public to respect the privacy of the hostages. Upon arrival in Israel, they will receive preliminary medical care and proceed to various medical facilities for family reunions.
As per an Israeli official, military helicopters will repatriate the hostages, purportedly from an Egyptian airport near Gaza.
The helicopter contingent will include a commando squad, medical practitioners, and liaison officers adept in communication and counseling.
Israel anxiously anticipates the release of women and children taken captive by Hamas during the deadliest assault in the nation’s history last month on the Sabbath.
Approximately 240 hostages were seized when Hamas operatives breached the militarized border between the Gaza Strip and Israel on October 7, resulting in around 1,200 casualties, according to Israeli authorities.
Caught off guard, Israel vowed to “crush” Hamas in retaliation and initiated a relentless campaign, allegedly claiming nearly 15,000 lives in the coastal enclave, as per Gaza’s Hamas government.
The liberation is set to commence at 4 pm (Israel time) today, starting with at least 10 women and children, followed by several Palestinian detainees from Israel, in adherence to the terms of the truce between Israel and Hamas.