Israel Launches ‘Operation Returning Home’ to Free Remaining Hostages
Israel's Operation Returning Home targets Hamas-held captives in bold ceasefire move.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched Operation "Returning Home" on Sunday, October 12, 2025, a high-stakes mission to bring home hostages still held by Hamas after two years of grueling conflict. In a stirring announcement, the IDF declared, "In a few hours we will all be reunited—one people, embraced and united," igniting hope across a nation desperate for closure. With a US-brokered ceasefire deal paving the way, whispers suggest releases could unfold as early as tonight, between 7 PM and midnight Israeli time, in a tearful reunion that could reshape the Middle East.
The operation caps months of relentless military strikes and intricate diplomacy, hailed as a turning point against Hamas. IDF Chief Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir called it a "victory," citing punishing airstrikes, ground operations, and a blockade that crippled the group’s resources, paired with dogged negotiations. The conflict, sparked by Hamas’s brutal October 7, 2023, attack that killed 1,139 Israelis and saw 251 people dragged into Gaza’s tunnels, has left a grim toll: over 67,000 Palestinians dead and 170,000 wounded. Of the captives, earlier 2025 deals freed 38 Israelis, five Thais, and eight bodies, leaving 48—roughly 20 believed alive—still in limbo.
The ceasefire’s first phase, set to wrap by Monday noon, demands Hamas release all remaining hostages, living and dead, in exchange for Israel freeing nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including high-profile figures accused of terror ties. Humanitarian aid will also surge into Gaza, where famine has ravaged northern areas, alongside a phased IDF withdrawal from key zones like Gaza City. Fuel trucks are rolling, medical supplies are flowing, and displaced Gazans are navigating rubble to return home.
Also Read: Israel and Hamas Sit Out Gaza Peace Signing, Leaving Global Leaders to Seal Historic Truce
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after talks with his hostages coordinator, Brig. Gen. (Res.) Gal Hirsch, vowed Israel is “ready to immediately receive all our hostages.” The nation is on edge, with Black Hawk choppers prepped for emotional airlifts. Last-minute talks today are ironing out the prisoner list, with Hamas reportedly pushing to accelerate releases if Israel frees key detainees early.
In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, where yellow ribbons and anguished vigils have defined the past two years, President Isaac Herzog addressed a hopeful crowd. “This agreement isn’t simple—it includes painful elements,” he admitted, voice cracking. “But this historic moment offers a horizon of hope and change for the Middle East.” He praised the US, especially President Donald Trump, whose team brokered the deal, with Trump expected to land Monday to a hero’s welcome.
Families like that of Alon Ohel, 24, kidnapped from the Nova festival, or Ariel Cunio, 28, who spoke of a “horror movie” during his capture, cling to faded photos, their wait nearly over. As the Rafah crossing prepares to reopen Tuesday for aid and exits, the Red Cross is ensuring “safe and dignified” handovers. While past truces have faltered, Israel buzzes with cautious optimism.
Also Read: Israel Plans to Dismantle Hamas Tunnel Network After Hostage Release
