'You're coming home'
Watch: Hostage's mother speaks with her son for the first time
Einav Zanguaker, mother of hostage Matan, speaks with her son just prior to his release from Hamas captivity. 'The war is over, you're coming home.'
Stories written by the Israel National News team have been compiled and edited by several news writers
Einav Zanguaker, mother of hostage Matan, speaks with her son just prior to his release from Hamas captivity. 'The war is over, you're coming home.'

The family of hostage survivor Eitan Mor joyfully announce his return from Hamas captivity after two years, thanking the IDF, security forces, Israeli leadership, US support, and the people of Israel for their role in bringing Eitan home.

After over 730 days in Hamas captivity, hostage Elkana Bohbot speaks with mother Ruhama on the phone, telling her, 'It's all okay, calm down.'

Rachel and Jon Goldberg-Polin, parents of murdered hostage Hersh, join the nation in gratitude and hope, echoing the words of Psalm 126: a song of return, laughter, and renewal after long months of pain.

The IDF has released footage of the returning hostages' arrival in Israel. Watch.

President Trump arrives in Israel ahead of the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. Ben Gurion Airport control tower: 'Welcome to the State of Israel, Mr. President. Your visit carries deep meaning for people in this time.'

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir is commanding Operation 'Returning Home, says it is a 'very significant day' marking progress toward key war objectives. 'Our mission will not end until the last hostage is returned.'

Government statement welcomes returning hostages home, says families have been updated.

The special prayer is being held under the leadership of the Tikva Forum and the Association of Community Rabbis, with bereaved families, reserve soldiers, and Minister Amichai Eliyahu.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and wife Sara left a personal note for every returning hostage. 'We waited for you, we embrace you.'

Thousands of Jews arrive at the Western Wall for festive Hoshana Rabba prayers, thanking G-d for the hostages' release. Watch.

President Herzog to inform President Trump of his decision to award him the “Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor” in recognition of his efforts to bring the hostages home.

Ukrainian President praises Trump’s Gaza ceasefire and urges similar pressure on Putin.

Moshe Or, brother of hostage Avinatan Or, shares his emotions ahead of their long-awaited reunion.

As the deal to release Israeli hostages from Hamas is set to be implemented, activist Rudy Rochman warns of hidden risks in its conditions.

Government approves significant amendments to the list of terrorist prisoners slated for release as part of the deal with Hamas.

At the United Hatzalah concert, Ambassador Huckabee, Ambassador Friedman, and Elon Gold wow the crowd with “Sweet Home Yerushalayim,” a twist on a classic tune.

At Jerusalem rally, mother of murdered hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin shares raw grief and hope ahead of the hostage release, urging unity and compassion after 736 days of anguish.

Senior Hamas military wing member Mahmoud Kawasmeh to be freed under hostage deal. Ministers were told he "promoted military activities against Judea and Samaria."

President Donald Trump responds to Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana’s invitation to address the Knesset: We stand on the doorstep of one of the greatest diplomatic achievements in history.

Israel is preparing for Hamas provocations during the coming night and up to the actual release of the hostages from captivity.

Two Brazilian nationals staying illegally in Orlando were arrested after allegedly planning to set fire to and bomb the Chabad House there.

According to the official, the agreement makes it possible to secure the return of the hostages while exploring a gradual dismantling of Hamas.

Jerusalem completes final arrangements for President Trump's visit, including road closures, flag displays, and enhanced city services for residents.

Saleh al-Jafarawi, known for pro-Hamas videos and accused of corruption, was found shot in the head in Gaza, reportedly by anti-Hamas clan.

A local newspaper distributor in Kochav Hashachar was identified as a terrorist last Friday. Residents remained in their homes for about three hours until the mistake was clarified.

IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir announced Israel’s victory over Hamas after two years of war, calling it an existential triumph and pledging lasting security for Israel.

Captivity survivor Eli Sharabi sent an English copy of his book 'Hostage' to US President Donald Trump, thanking him for securing his release.

US Vice President JD Vance said reports of an American troop deployment to Gaza are false, confirming the US will only monitor the ceasefire terms while regional allies handle security.

Footage shows the new beachside restaurant in Khan Yunis that shares a name with the festival where Hamas terrorists murdered 378.

The flag, measuring 26×36 feet (8×11 meters), was erected in Ateret, which is in a major flight path to Ben Gurion Airport.

The families of Segev Kalfon and Yosef-Haim Ohana, abducted from the Nova music festival, shared emotional footage preparing their homes and belongings ahead of the hostages’ expected return.

A prisoner who was due to be released under the hostage deal attacked a prison guard at Ketziot and was removed from the list of those to be set free.

Hostage Coordinator Brig.-Gen. (Res.) Gal Hirsch said Israel is ready for the release to begin Monday morning, with Red Cross convoys and hospitals on standby to receive returnees.

MK Succot ascended the Temple Mount and declared that the real 'Al-Aqsa Flood' - the name Hamas used for the October 7th massacre - was only beginning.

British Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson claimed today that the UK government has been involved in diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza.

One day before the real president touches down in Israel, the actor who plays him arrived to shoot at Hostages Square.

Saudi media reported that the legendary spy's remains, which are buried in Syria, may soon be returned to Israel.

The IDF reported that troops continue operating in the area to remove any immediate threat to the soldiers.

Rabbi Yitzhak Yosef calls US President Donald Trump a 'Righteous Among the Nations' for role in hostages’ release, urges synagogues to sing prayers of thanks, while mourning those who will return in death.
