On October 13, 2025, Israel witnessed a moment of profound relief and celebration as all 20 living hostages held by Hamas since the October 7, 2023, terror attacks were released and returned home. Their release, part of a historic ceasefire agreement brokered in Egypt, marked the end of 738 days of captivity and brought closure to one of the most painful chapters in Israel’s recent history.
The hostages—all men under the age of 50—were abducted during the brutal attacks that claimed the lives of over 1,200 Israelis and saw 251 people taken into Gaza. Their return was met with tears, cheers, and prayers across the country. In Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square, now Freedom Square, which had become a symbol of protest and hope, thousands gathered to welcome them home. The square, once filled with anguish and uncertainty, transformed into a place of healing and unity.
Among those celebrating was Yael Eckstein, President and CEO of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, who posted a heartfelt video from Israel shortly after attending President Donald Trump’s speech at the Knesset. “For the first time in two years, we have all of the hostages home. Praise God!” she declared. “Redemption from the Lord comes in the blink of an eye… We are so grateful that the hostages have returned home, and we are celebrating the good news.”
Yael’s message resonates deeply with supporters of Israel around the world. She reflected on the emotional toll of the past two years, recalling the fear and uncertainty that gripped the nation in the aftermath of the attacks. “To think that two years ago exactly, we were all crying. We were all wondering if Israel would survive this… God has performed miracles to save us. Miracle after miracle after miracle.”
The release was part of a multi-phase ceasefire agreement signed in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, involving President Trump, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, and other global leaders. In exchange for the hostages, Israel agreed to release 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences. The deal also included provisions for humanitarian aid to Gaza and the beginning of reconstruction efforts.
President Trump’s brief visit to Israel and his address to the Knesset were seen as pivotal moments in the peace process. Yael praised both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for their leadership, noting that Israel had faced attacks from seven fronts and emerged stronger. “All of them have suffered a very heavy blow, and today Israel is stronger and safer than ever,” she said. “And I believe it’s of course because of those leaders, but I also believe it’s because of you—those of you who have been praying for the peace of Jerusalem, those of you who have continued to stand with Israel and the Jewish people.”
The hostages were transferred via the International Committee of the Red Cross and received medical and psychological evaluations at hospitals including Sheba, Ichilov, Beilinson, and Soroka Medical Center. Among those released were Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, Eitan Mor, brothers Gali and Ziv Berman, Omri Miran, and Guy Gilboa-Dalal. While none required emergency evacuation, their long-term recovery will be ongoing.
Yet amid the joy, there was also sorrow. Hamas hasn't returned the remains of all 28 Israeli hostages, though they are expected to be handed over in the coming days. Yael acknowledged this painful reality in her video: “We are still crying inside. Now is when the healing begins. We are getting back the bodies of our loved ones. We are remembering and honoring all those who fell in the past two years so that we could get to this moment.”
The timing of the release, just before the holiday of Simchat Torah, added spiritual significance. Two years ago, Simchat Torah was marred by tragedy. This year, it became a day of celebration. “Celebration that we have all of the living hostages home in Israel, celebration that there is a peace plan that, God-willing, will bring hope and peace, not only to Israel but to the entire Middle East and the entire world,” Yael said.
Her message also highlights the role of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews in supporting Israel during its darkest hours. “We have been able to distribute hundreds of millions of dollars of lifesaving aid, building bomb shelters, bringing food to the hungry, doing so many things that have saved lives and given hope to the hopeless these past two years.”
As the nation begins to heal, Yael offered a message of hope and faith: “When you think things are low, lift your eyes up to the mountains and remember from where your help comes. Your help comes from the Lord, maker of heaven and earth.”
The return of the hostages is more than just a political milestone—it is a spiritual and emotional turning point for Israel and its supporters worldwide. It reminds us that even in the darkest times, miracles are possible, and that faith, unity, and compassion can overcome despair.
Robin Van Etten is a seasoned nonprofit professional with 25 years of experience in direct response marketing and fundraising. She is currently the US CEO and Global Chief Operating Officer at the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, a nonprofit humanitarian organization serving the needs of the Jewish population around the world. In 2025, she was named a Notable Leader in Philanthropy by Crain’s Chicago Business.
To learn more about the Fellowship’s ongoing work or to support its humanitarian efforts, visit IFCJ.org.