From Gaza to Sheba
Inside Israel’s 72-Hour Race to Bring Its Hostages Home
Under the operation codenamed "Returning to Their Border," the IDF has finalized an intricate, multi-stage plan, modelled on previous exchanges, to receive the Israeli hostages via the Red Cross, medical checks, a family reunion at an IDF base, and immediate specialized hospital care.
A state of maximum readiness is underway in Israel for the imminent return of Israeli hostages after two years in the Gaza Strip. The operation to receive and integrate the former hostages has been codenamed "Returning to Their Border" ("Shavim LiGvulam") by the IDF Manpower Directorate. This operation will run parallel to the military’s withdrawal operation, "Iron Light" ("Or HaBarzel"), where the army pulls back to agreed lines.
The Israeli hostages are expected to be released within 72 hours of the government’s approval of the first phase of the agreement, which is anticipated this evening. Arab reports indicate that Hamas has already begun gathering the living Israeli hostages to a secure location ahead of their transfer to the Red Cross.
The Five-Stop Route to Freedom
The path to freedom will follow a proven, expanded model from previous hostages exchanges, involving a tightly coordinated sequence of handovers and assessments:
An IDF military source confirmed the high level of preparedness, stating, "We are ready to receive the Israeli hostages even now, if required. All the forces have been refreshed and understand their mission. We are waiting for them at home." The medical and psychological care plan emphasizes a phased and controlled reunion with families only after essential medical examinations are completed.