‘Welcome back’: Netanyahu’s handwritten note to freed Israeli hostages

**‘Welcome Back’: Netanyahu’s Handwritten Note to Freed Israeli Hostages**

*By Snehil Singh | October 13, 2025, 01:14 PM*

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his wife, Sara, have extended a heartfelt welcome to the 20 Israeli hostages recently released by Hamas. These individuals had been held captive since the attack on October 7, 2023.

As part of their homecoming, the freed hostages received welcome kits containing clothing and personal items, including laptops, mobile phones, and tablets. Accompanying these kits was a handwritten note from the Netanyahus, emphasizing the personal nature of this gesture.

### A Personal Touch from the Prime Minister

Netanyahu’s office shared a photo of the note on X (formerly Twitter), which read:

“On behalf of the entire people of Israel, welcome back! We have been waiting for you. We embrace you.”

The note was signed by both Benjamin and Sara Netanyahu, underscoring the nation’s relief and joy at their safe return.

### Hostages Released So Far

Israeli officials confirmed to CNN that seven hostages have been received so far through the Red Cross. According to The Times of Israel, citing Hebrew media, the first group freed from northern Gaza includes Matan Angrest, brothers Gali and Ziv Berman, Alon Ohel, Eitan Mor, and Omiri Miran. An additional 14 hostages are scheduled to be released later in the day from various locations across Gaza.

### Part of a Ceasefire Agreement

The release of the hostages is a key element of the ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel. Announced last week by US President Donald Trump, the comprehensive 20-point plan aims to end the ongoing war in Gaza.

Under this roadmap, Hamas is expected to release all remaining 47 hostages, 20 of whom are confirmed alive. In exchange, Israel will release approximately 2,000 Palestinian detainees. Additionally, 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences will also be freed as part of the agreement.

### Post-Release Procedures

After their release, hostages are being transported by the Red Cross to the Israeli Defense Forces near Re’im. There, they undergo thorough health checks and have the long-awaited opportunity to reunite with their families.

### Broader Context of the Conflict

The hostage release occurs amid a brutal conflict between Hamas and Israel that has been ongoing since October 7, 2023. The war has displaced roughly two million people and resulted in over 67,000 deaths.

Looking ahead, the second phase of the peace plan envisions the establishment of a new administrative body in Gaza that excludes Hamas, deployment of a multinational force, and the disarmament of Hamas.

This multi-step process aims at restoring stability and laying the groundwork for long-term peace in the region.

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*Stay tuned for more updates on the unfolding developments related to the ceasefire and hostage releases.*
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