Agam, Arbel, Gadi, and Five Thai Nationals Return to Israel

This morning (Thursday), Israel celebrated the return of several hostages from Hamas captivity, marking another step in the ongoing mission to bring every captive home. Israeli hostages Agam Berger, Arbel Yehud, and Gadi Moses, along with five foreign nationals of Thai origin, were released after months of captivity. Their return brings relief to their families and the entire nation, while the fight continues for those still held in Gaza.

The Journey to Freedom

At 10:40 AM, fellow IDF observation soldiers—who had been freed last Saturday—watched with great emotion as Agam Berger was transferred to the Red Cross. Dr. Koren Feldman, director of Beilinson Hospital, described the scene: “There were cheers and overwhelming excitement when the observers saw Agam this morning. Her return is part of their own healing process.”

Video: Agam Berger’s family, at the initial reception facility, watching as Agam is transferred to the Red Cross. pic.twitter.com/jgbwm9T6yj

— Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) January 30, 2025

By 11:14 AM, Berger had arrived at the IDF reception site near Gaza, where she was met by IDF medical teams and reunited with her family for the first time since being abducted. Military personnel assessed her condition while keeping her extended family updated at the hospital.

IDF Forces Receive Agam Berger | Photo: IDF Spokesperson

At 12:50 PM, Berger and her parents were airlifted to the hospital aboard an Israeli Air Force helicopter. The IDF Spokesperson confirmed that she would receive immediate medical treatment and be reunited with her loved ones.

At 1:13 PM, Israel’s Ministry of Health announced her arrival at the hospital, stating: “Medical teams and professionals are fully prepared to provide any necessary physical, psychological, or other care required. We urge the public to respect the privacy of the returning hostages and their families, ensuring their smooth reintegration into civilian life and recovery.”

Meanwhile, at 1:15 PM, the IDF and Shin Bet confirmed that seven hostages—including Yehud, Moses, and the five Thai nationals—had been handed over to the Red Cross and were en route to Israeli forces.

At 1:39 PM, Israeli security forces received them in Gaza, with the IDF Spokesperson stating, “The seven returning hostages are now escorted by an elite IDF unit and Shin Bet forces on their way to Israel, where they will undergo an initial medical evaluation. IDF commanders and soldiers salute and embrace them as they make their way home.”

By 2:23 PM, Yehud, Moses, and the Thai nationals arrived at a reception site near the Gaza border, where IDF medical teams provided preliminary health assessments. Arbel Yehud and Gadi Moses were then reunited with their families, while Thai government representatives welcomed the foreign nationals. “IDF representatives are also supporting the families waiting at the hospital, providing them with continuous updates,” an IDF spokesperson confirmed.

Medical Readiness for Returning Hostages

Israel’s healthcare system and security forces are working to ensure the freed hostages receive comprehensive medical evaluations and psychological support. From the moment of their arrival at reception sites near Gaza, hostages are assessed before being transported by helicopter to major hospitals including Ichilov, Sheba, Assaf Harofeh, and Beilinson, with Barzilai and Soroka hospitals also on standby.

Beyond medical care, the returning hostages will receive psychological rehabilitation to aid their transition back into civilian life. The trauma of captivity, especially under Hamas’s brutal conditions, requires ongoing support. The Israeli public is urged to respect their privacy, allowing them space to heal.

Security Measures and Prisoner Releases

As hostages return, Israel remains vigilant. Today, 110 Palestinian prisoners are set to be released as part of the ongoing exchange deal. Overnight, IDF Central Command carried out multiple security operations across Judea and Samaria, particularly in areas where released prisoners are expected to return. These preemptive measures ensure that the process remains secure and prevents any resurgence of violence.

The return of the hostages is not just a triumph of human effort but a moment to recognize God’s hand in history and to give Him all the praise. As Israel welcomes its loved ones home, may the nation be strengthened by the knowledge that “His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations.”

This is a moment to lift our voices in praise, acknowledging that God is our Shepherd, guiding His people through trials and triumphs alike.

Psalms 100

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!

Serve God with gladness! Come into His presence with singing!

Know that the Lord is God!  It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise!  Give thanks to Him and bless His name!

For the Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations.