Fireworks along with a Cheer to Life: Israelis Rejoice at Agreement to Return Hostages
The announcement of an agreement expected to result in the release captives held within Gaza for more than 24 months has generated delight and relief throughout Israel.
A group which has campaigned for the return of Israeli hostages in Gaza expressed “profound gratitude” for what it called a “landmark achievement”.
The deal—still requiring agreed upon Israel’s war cabinet—will see the release of 20 hostages alive as well as the remains of 28 deceased captives in return for 250 Palestinian prisoners imprisoned for life in Israeli prisons plus 1,700 individuals from the Gaza region.
To date, 148 hostages have come back—most as part of previous ceasefire deals—51 bodies have been recovered while eight hostages were freed by rescue.
Jubilant Scenes at Hostages Square
Joyous gatherings took place in Hostages’ Square in Tel Aviv with crowds of individuals gathered before the agreement’s signing.
The gathering started applauding and moving to music beneath American and Israeli banners—a female attendee holding up a placard saying: “We love Trump.”
“It’s a magical day,” she expressed.
Another, Yael, aged 50, wept while observing the people celebrating.
“I am thrilled—it is such a comfort,” she stated. “We must witness them come back home to their loved ones.”
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Relatives Rejoice Using Pyrotechnics
The mother and sister of Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker set off fireworks in celebration of the news that he would be returned home.
“They are returning!... Matan is on his way home!” Einav Zangauker said as she held her child.
Viki Cohen, the mother of Israeli hostage Nimrod Cohen, shared online: “My child, you are coming home.”
The delight could be felt throughout the avenues in Tel Aviv following the news.
Freed Hostages Say Prayers and Toasts
Ex-captive of British-Israeli origin Emily Damari rejoiced alongside another released captive Romi Gonen, reciting prayers of gratitude, then cheering “L’chaim”, which means “to life”. She has advocated for the release of her companions, the Berman twins Gali and Ziv.
Their brother Liran Berman posted: “My Gali and Ziv, I love you so much. You’re coming home.”
Gil Dickman’s cousin Carmel Gat was taken hostage in October 2023, and her body recovered from a tunnel in Gaza almost a year later. He has participated with other captives’ relatives in advocating for an agreement which ensures the homecoming of all those still detained in Gaza.
“I can’t quite believe this is actually happening. We have waited for such a long time and now it’s here,” he expressed.
He said he was “broken” that his cousin will not be among those returning to their homes but was “radiant with happiness” for the families of the hostages who are finally returning.
Eitan Horn was seized from Nir Oz kibbutz in southern Israel together with his sibling.
Cautious Optimism from Family Members
Dalia Cusnir, whose brother-in-law Eitan Horn remains captive in Gaza, said she experienced like she was living “a dream state”.
“We’re more than grateful to President Trump and everything he has accomplished for us. We feel that this could be the start of the conclusion of this ordeal, and embracing Eitan seems nearer than before,” she said.
However, she warned that it was still too soon to rejoice.
“Before the final captive is here, we’re not opening the bubbly. We’re going to keep fighting... until it’s over,” she affirmed.
“So many things might occur until the last moment so this is why we are extremely cautious. We simply wish to express gratitude to all who was involved in the work and ensure this deal is finalized... We shall rejoice only once we have the last hostage safely home.”
Eitan was captured from Nir Oz kibbutz in southern Israel together with his sibling Iair, who was freed from detainment in a ceasefire deal earlier in the year.
Associated Updates
- ‘Historic chance’: Global response to first stage of Gaza agreement
- What we know regarding the ‘initial stage’ of the Gaza peace deal
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