The morning began with news of six hostages to be released this week, including Arbel Yehud and Agam Berger on Thursday. Israel simultaneously opened the Netzarim corridor for Gazans' return north. By midday, Hamas's list revealed eight of the first phase hostages were deceased, leading to difficult notifications to families.
Two IDF reservists were arrested for allegedly spying for Iran, accused of documenting Iron Dome systems for $3,500. Released hostages' testimonies emerged, describing eight months underground without daylight. Operation Iron Wall expanded to Tulkarm, where Israeli forces eliminated a Hamas commander.
By evening, Islamic Jihad released a proof-of-life video of Arbel Yehud, filmed Saturday, ahead of her scheduled Thursday release. The video's timing and staging suggested careful coordination of the upcoming exchange.