US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed President Donald Trump’s demand for Hamas to release all hostages immediately.

“The President was clear—Hamas MUST release ALL hostages NOW!” Rubio stated in a White House post on X. His remarks came as Israel confirmed the return of three hostages freed by Hamas as part of a negotiated exchange.

Earlier on Saturday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that the three hostages—Ohad Ben Ami, Eli Sharabi, and Or Levy—had been transferred to the Red Cross, which escorted them into Israeli territory. Upon arrival, they were received by IDF and Shin Bet forces and underwent initial medical evaluations. The men, held captive in Gaza, appeared visibly frail, raising deep concern among their families.

The Times of Israel reported that Hamas staged a public event before their release, forcing the hostages to take part in a propaganda display. During the event, a masked Hamas operative delivered a speech as the captives stood on stage holding certificates. Behind them, banners in Arabic, Hebrew, and English read: “We’re the flood, the war’s next day”—a message seemingly directed at President Trump following his recent declaration that the U.S. would “take over” Gaza.

The emotional toll on the families was evident. Ohad Ben Ami’s mother, Michal Cohen, expressed anguish over her son’s frail appearance, saying he looked aged beyond his years. Or Levy’s brother, Tal Levy, also noted his brother’s emaciated condition but emphasized the need to continue efforts to secure the release of all hostages. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum echoed this urgency, describing the distressing images of the freed captives as clear proof of the need for immediate action.

As part of the agreement, Israel has prepared to release 183 Palestinian security prisoners from Keziot Prison in the Negev and Ofer Prison in the West Bank. Among them are 18 prisoners serving life sentences, seven of whom will be deported. Of the total detainees, 111 were arrested in Gaza during the ongoing war, while the remaining 72 are from the West Bank and East Jerusalem.

(With inputs from ANI)