How many living hostages were released in October 2025?

All 20 surviving hostages were released as the ceasefire implementation resumed in mid-October 2025, according to official statements and multiple international reports.

Are all deceased hostages’ remains returned?

Repatriation of remains is ongoing. Officials say not all confirmed deceased hostages’ bodies have been returned yet.

What else is included in the ceasefire framework?

The framework includes phased prisoner exchanges and expanded humanitarian access within the ceasefire window, alongside monitoring and verification steps.

Gaza Ceasefire & Hostage Releases — What Happened

Key takeaways

Final 20 living hostages were freed in the first phase of the October ceasefire implementation.
Remains repatriation is ongoing: Israel says not all confirmed deceased hostages’ bodies have been returned.
The ceasefire follows earlier agreements in January–March 2025 that included staged prisoner-hostage exchanges.

Timeline snapshot

Jan 15, 2025 — Framework for a multi-stage ceasefire and exchanges is announced after months of negotiations.
Jan–Mar 2025 — Staged exchanges proceed amid intermittent fighting and setbacks.
Oct 13–15, 2025 — Ceasefire implementation resumes; all 20 surviving hostages are released; transfer of several bodies also occurs; Israel says additional remains are still outstanding.

Numbers at a glance

Authorities report that all living hostages have now left Gaza, while a number of deceased hostages’ bodies are still to be returned under the agreement terms. The broader deal also includes the release of Palestinian prisoners and expanded humanitarian access during the ceasefire window.

This article is an explainer aimed at clarity. We do not take a political position and we link to multiple reputable sources. Final figures can change as authorities update counts.

Why it matters

The release of the final living hostages marks a turning point for families seeking closure and for negotiators who have worked toward a sustained cessation of hostilities. The treatment and rehabilitation needs of former captives are expected to be significant and long-term, and repatriation of remains remains a sensitive, active process.

Glossary

Ceasefire (truce) — A temporary halt to hostilities, often with specific obligations and timelines.
Hostage exchange — The negotiated release of captives and detainees between parties to the conflict.