Official statements from the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) or Israeli government

IDF Finalizes Preparations to Receive Hostages from Gaza Tomorrow Under Ceasefire Deal

Jan 18, 2025, 05:24 PM

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have completed preparations to receive hostages set to be released by Hamas from the Gaza Strip tomorrow as part of an upcoming ceasefire deal. Over the past day, the IDF, led by the Manpower Directorate and the Medical Corps, established three reception complexes near the Gaza border at the Re'im base, Kerem Shalom Crossing, and Erez Crossing. These facilities will provide initial medical and psychological care to the returning hostages, who have been in captivity for 15 months, before they are transferred to hospitals for further treatment and reunification with their families. "We wanted them to feel at home," an Israeli hospital representative said, highlighting the efforts made to prepare special facilities for the hostages. The preparations were conducted in coordination with the Health Ministry, other government ministries, and security authorities. Israeli hospitals are also preparing to treat the hostages, anticipating that many may have severe, life-threatening complications after their prolonged captivity. The IDF has scant knowledge of the hostages' conditions and is making arrangements accordingly.