Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday visited Sheba Medical Center at Tel HaShomer in Ramat Gan to review preparations for receiving hostages freed as part of “Operation Returning Home.”
The premier toured the facility’s designated intake area for the freed captives and commended the medical teams on their readiness.
Earlier in the day, Netanyahu praised the Trump administration-brokered ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, describing it as an achievement that secured the release of all 48 remaining hostages in Gaza through a combination of diplomatic and military pressure.
Under the deal, Israel is expected to receive by 6 a.m. Monday 20 living hostages and the bodies of another 28.
During his visit, the prime minister also met with Israel Defense Forces soldiers wounded in the war.
“You are heroes. You have saved the State of Israel and uplifted our spirit. I am excited about the mental strength that you all mobilize for personal and national rehabilitation. Seeing you fills me with strength and boundless gratitude,” Netanyahu said.
The Israeli military is also preparing for the release of the hostages—on a larger scale than during previous ceasefires.
The protocol will follow the model used in prior hostage returns, including the creation of a dedicated area where hostages can shower and freshen up before reuniting with their families in an adjacent space.
Officer’s quarters at the Re’im military base near Gaza are being converted into reception areas for the captives. Following family reunions there, the hostages will be flown to hospitals across the country that have already cleared dedicated departments.
