After enduring over two years of captivity under Hamas, seven Israeli hostages have been welcomed back into the arms of a nation celebrating their return. In a significant gesture of support, the Israeli government announced on October 13, 2025, a comprehensive National Hostage Rehabilitation and Compensation Program, marking the largest civilian restitution initiative since the Yom Kippur War.

Each returning hostage is set to receive a one-time grant of 60,000 shekels (approximately $16,000), a monthly stipend of 9,000 shekels (about $2,400), and up to 300,000 shekels (around $80,000) in housing assistance. This financial aid package also includes lifelong medical and psychological care, emphasizing the state's commitment to the survivors' long-term well-being.

The program will be overseen by the Hostages and Missing Persons Directorate alongside Bituach Leumi (National Insurance Institute), with funds sourced from Israel’s national budget and supplemented by U.S. and European humanitarian contributions. Additionally, the newly established Am Israel Chai: The Hostage Fund will direct private donations towards further trauma therapy and rehabilitation services.

As the first of the hostages were handed over to the Red Cross and flown to the Re’im military base near Gaza, Israel collectively exhaled a sigh of relief. Public squares filled and national flags adorned the streets, signaling a rare moment of unity and joy amongst the Israeli populace.

The emotional toll was visible as the hostages arrived, draped in national flags, their conditions a stark reminder of their ordeal. Families and friends gathered, their reunions a poignant testament to the resilience and enduring hope that sustained them through the harrowing 738 days.

A fragile peace deal brokered by former U.S. President Donald Trump, involving the exchange of these hostages for 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, has paved the way for this resolution. This agreement has been touted as a stepping stone towards a more stable future, with plans to dismantle Hamas tunnels and implement a robust peacekeeping mission in Gaza.

In the shadow of these developments, the focus now shifts to the arduous journey of recovery. The National Hostage Rehabilitation and Compensation Program not only promises financial support but also a commitment to the holistic recovery of each individual. The government's pledge is clear: no resource will be spared in restoring the lives of those who suffered unimaginable hardships.

As the nation rallies around its returned sons and daughters, the sentiment echoed by former hostage Emily Damari resonates deeply, "Money can't erase what happened. But knowing the country stands behind us — that’s how you start to live again."