Israel has fulfilled its solemn commitment to return all hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attacks, culminating with the recovery and return of Master Sgt. Ran Gvili's body. This milestone marks the end of a painful chapter for the nation, as families and citizens had insisted that true healing could only begin once every hostage, living or deceased, was brought home. The release of the final living hostages months earlier had already seemed improbable, but the return of Gvili's remains now completes the process and distinguishes this moment from previous tragedies where soldiers were left behind.

The achievement also signals the formal conclusion of the first phase of a broader peace plan for Gaza, setting the stage for new political and security arrangements, including the reopening of the Rafah Crossing and steps toward demilitarization. While the return of the hostages is a source of national relief, the ultimate goal of destroying Hamas remains unfulfilled, and the group continues to hold significant power in Gaza. Nevertheless, Israel's leadership has cleared a crucial hurdle in restoring public trust after the failures of October 7, and the nation can now begin to move forward.