Hamas to Release Hostages as Israel Prepares for 'New Era' Amid Ceasefire and Reconstruction Efforts
October 12, 2025
Post-ceasefire, the European Union's role in Gaza is expected to strengthen, with missions like EUBAM and Eupol Copps involved in border control and security, including German troops.
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt might reopen partially as early as Tuesday, managed jointly by Palestinian authorities and an EU mission, allowing Palestinians to leave and Egyptians to return, subject to Israeli security checks.
Iran clarified its support for the Gaza ceasefire aims solely at ending violence, not endorsing US policies, citing Israel's repeated non-compliance with agreements and expressing skepticism about long-term peace prospects.
Israel is concerned that Hamas may not be able to recover all dead bodies of hostages due to extensive destruction in Gaza, raising fears that some remains might remain undiscovered, complicating family closures.
A summit involving the US, Egypt, Qatar, and possibly Turkey aims to develop an American plan to reduce violence in Gaza, including establishing a Palestinian technocratic committee overseen by an international body led by Trump, excluding Hamas.
Signatures from mediators like the US, Egypt, Qatar, and possibly Turkey are expected on a document guaranteeing a ceasefire, though Iran's participation remains uncertain due to its support for Hamas.
The fragile ceasefire has brought temporary relief to Gaza, with humanitarian aid entering through Rafah and Kerem Shalom, despite incidents of looting and distribution challenges.
Germany announced a significant financial contribution for Gaza's reconstruction, supporting immediate aid and long-term rebuilding efforts in cooperation with international partners, including Egypt.
Hamas has reportedly gathered 20 live hostages and is prepared to release them, with the possibility of freeing all remaining hostages in Gaza, which Israel states total 48, including seven German citizens.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that the upcoming hostage release, expected on Monday, will mark the beginning of a 'new era' for Israel.
The release will occur without public ceremonies, with initial medical assessments at a military camp near Gaza, contingent on confirmation that all hostages have arrived safely in Israel.
In exchange for the release of hostages, Israel has committed to freeing 250 prisoners, including some convicted of attacks, and releasing 1,700 Palestinians detained in Gaza since the start of the conflict.
Israel continues efforts to destroy Hamas tunnels in Gaza to de-militarize the area, with the military prepared for further operations to dismantle extensive tunnel networks.
Summary based on 4 sources
