IDF says preparations to receive hostages from Hamas are complete

The Israel Defense Forces said Friday that preparations are complete and Israel is ready to receive the 13 hostages to be released by Hamas at 9 a.m. ET. 

"The IDF, in coordination with government ministries and security authorities, have prepared to quickly receive the released hostages and give them all the necessary support," the military said in a statement. 

"As part of the preparations, the IDF has readied several locations dedicated to the initial reception of the released hostages, including with necessary medical provisions and support. After the initial reception and medical treatment, the released hostages will continue to hospitals, where they will be reunited with their families," the IDF continued.

The military requested that the public and the media respect the privacy of the hostages and their families. 

"The IDF Spokesperson’s Unit asks that the public refer to official updates and announcements only, and refrain from enabling the weaponization of psychological terror by terrorist organizations," the military said.