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IDF Closes Hostages Unit After Gaza Captives Returned

1/30/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the dormancy of its Hostages and Missing Persons Headquarters after all captives from Gaza Strip were returned.
Established after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, the unit managed 255 hostages, including 251 abducted.
The unit, about 2,100 soldiers strong, focused on intelligence gathering and rescue operations, which grew complex.
Under a ceasefire in October 2025, Hamas released 20 living hostages and returned 27 deceased captives.

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Story summary

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the dormancy of its Hostages and Missing Persons Headquarters after all captives from Gaza Strip were returned.
Established after the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, the unit managed 255 hostages, including 251 abducted.
The unit, about 2,100 soldiers strong, focused on intelligence gathering and rescue operations, which grew complex.
Under a ceasefire in October 2025, Hamas released 20 living hostages and returned 27 deceased captives.