Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke of a “historic event” ahead of the anticipated handover of hostages held by the Palestinian Hamas movement in the Gaza Strip.

Netanyahu said in a recorded speech on Sunday: “Tomorrow marks the beginning of a new path. A path of building, a path of healing wounds.”

He added that alongside the joy of the hostages’ return, the day will also be marked “by sorrow over the release of killers,” referring to the Palestinian prisoners Israel intends to release in exchange for the hostages.

Netanyahu said Israel has achieved tremendous victories through united efforts. However, the battle is not over yet. “We still face significant security challenges.”

Earlier, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said at the Hostages Square in Tel Aviv that many of Israel’s enemies and critics accuse the country of seeking a continuous battle against its adversaries, insisting that this is not true.

Herzog said: “Once the hostages return, Israel will not go to war. Israel is committed to fulfilling this agreement and wants to pursue peace with its neighbors and finally bring change to the region’s future.”

Sources within Hamas reported plans to hand over all living hostages, as well as as many deceased hostages as possible, by 0300 GMT on Monday.