The announcement regarding a deal projected to lead to the freeing captives detained in the Gaza Strip for over two years has generated delight and relief across Israel.
An organization that has advocated for the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza voiced “deep appreciation” for what it called an “historic breakthrough”.
The deal—which still must be agreed upon the Israeli war cabinet—involves the return of 20 hostages alive and the bodies of 28 deceased captives in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners imprisoned for life in Israeli jails and 1,700 detainees from the Gaza region.
So far, 148 captives have come back—most as part of previous ceasefire deals—51 sets of remains have been recovered and eight hostages were freed by rescue.
Celebratory Moments in Hostages’ Square
Joyous gatherings have unfolded at Hostages Square located in Tel Aviv with crowds of individuals gathered before the agreement’s signing.
A crowd started applauding and moving to music under US and Israeli flags—one woman holding up a sign saying: “We adore Trump.”
“This is a wondrous day,” the woman said.
A different person, 50-year-old Yael, wept while observing the crowd dancing.
“I’m very excited—it is such a comfort,” she stated. “We must witness them come back home to their loved ones.”
- LIVE REACTION: Trump reveals Gaza deal
- Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians celebrate deal
- ANALYSIS: Significant progress, but war not over yet
Families Celebrate with Fireworks
The mom and sibling of Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker lit fireworks in celebration of the announcement of his impending homecoming.
“They are returning!... Matan is on his way home!” Einav Zangauker said while holding her daughter.
Viki Cohen, the mother of captive Israeli Nimrod Cohen, posted on social media: “My son, you are returning home.”
The delight could be felt in the streets in Tel Aviv following the announcement.
Freed Hostages Say Prayers and Raise Glasses
Ex-captive of British-Israeli origin Emily Damari celebrated alongside another released captive Romi Gonen, uttering blessings of thankfulness, then toasting “L’chaim”, which means “to life”. She has advocated for the freedom of her companions, the Berman twins Gali and Ziv.
Their sibling Liran Berman posted: “My Gali and Ziv, I love you so much. You are coming back.”
Gil Dickman’s cousin Carmel Gat was captured in October 2023, and her body found in an underground passage in Gaza nearly a year after. He has participated with other captives’ relatives in advocating for an agreement which ensures the homecoming of all those still being held in Gaza.
“I can’t quite believe this is real. We’ve been waiting for so long and here it is,” he expressed.
He stated he was “shattered” that his cousin would 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 kibbutz Nir Oz in Israel’s south along with his brother.
Cautious Optimism from Family Members
Dalia Cusnir, whose brother-in-law Eitan Horn is still held in Gaza, remarked she felt as if she were in “in a dream”.
“We are immensely thankful to the President and all he has accomplished for us. It seems that this could be the beginning of the end of this ordeal, and hugging Eitan feels closer than ever,” she commented.
But she cautioned that it remained too soon to celebrate.
“Until the last hostage is here, we’re not opening the champagne. We’re going to keep fighting... until the end,” she said.
“Numerous events might occur up to the final instant so this is why we are extremely cautious. We just want to thank everyone who was involved in the efforts and ensure this deal is finalized... We shall rejoice only when the last captive is back 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.
Related Developments
- ‘Momentous opportunity’: Global response to initial phase of Gaza agreement
- What we know about the ‘first phase’ of the Gaza accord
Israel-Gaza war | Israel | The group
