In a statement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the three former hostages “with a big embrace”.

The PM assured that Israel has been preparing for their return and “along with their families, will assist in their rehabilitation after a long and excruciating period of captivity”.

Israel, said the PM is working in full coordination with the United States in order to free all of its hostages – living and deceased – as soon as possible. He also warned that Israel is “preparing with full intensity for what comes next, in every sense”.