Israel ready for hostages’ immediate release, Netanyahu says as reports indicate they could be freed today

By Nava Freiberg

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12 October 2025, 1:48 pm

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Nava Freiberg is The Times of Israel's deputy diplomatic correspondent.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says “Israel is ready and prepared for the immediate reception of all our hostages,” according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office, as reports indicate that the release of hostages from Gaza could take place as early as this evening.

Meanwhile, an Israeli official tells the Kan public broadcaster that the army thinks the hostages will be back in Israel by the time US President Donald Trump lands in Israel on Monday at 9:20 a.m.

“The IDF has completed its preparations for the release of the hostages and assesses that all of them will be released before Trump’s arrival,” the source is quoted as saying.