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The announcement of an agreement projected to result in the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip for more than 24 months has generated delight and comfort across the nation.

An organization that has advocated for the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza expressed “profound gratitude” for what it termed an “historic breakthrough”.

The deal—which still must be agreed upon the Israeli war cabinet—will see the release of 20 hostages alive as well as the remains of 28 deceased captives in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences in Israeli jails plus 1,700 individuals from Gaza.

So far, 148 captives have been returned—most as part of previous ceasefire deals—51 sets of remains have been recovered while eight hostages were freed by rescue.

Jubilant Scenes at Hostages Square

Joyous gatherings took place in Hostages’ Square located in Tel Aviv as hundreds of people assembled before the deal being signed.

The gathering began clapping and dancing under US and Israeli flags—one woman displaying a sign saying: “We love Trump.”

“It’s a magical day,” she expressed.

Another, 50-year-old Yael, cried as she watched the crowd dancing.

“I’m very excited—it is such a comfort,” she stated. “We need to see their return home to their loved ones.”

• REAL-TIME RESPONSE: Trump announces Gaza agreement
• Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians mark deal
• ANALYSIS: Significant progress, but war not over yet

Relatives Rejoice Using Pyrotechnics

The mom and sibling of Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker set off 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 parent of captive Israeli Nimrod Cohen, posted on social media: “My son, you are returning home.”

The delight was palpable throughout the avenues in Tel Aviv following the announcement.

Freed Hostages Offer Prayers and Raise Glasses

Former British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari celebrated with another freed hostage Romi Gonen, uttering blessings of gratitude, then cheering “To life”, which means “for life”. She has advocated for the release of her friends, twins Gali and Ziv Berman.

Their brother Liran Berman wrote: “My dear Gali and Ziv, I adore you. You’re coming home.”

The cousin of Gil Dickman Carmel Gat was taken hostage on 7 October 2023, and her body recovered from a tunnel in Gaza nearly a year after. He has participated with other captives’ relatives in advocating for an agreement that brings the return of all those still detained in Gaza.

“I hardly believe this is real. We’ve been waiting for so long and now it’s here,” he expressed.

He stated he was “shattered” that Carmel would not be among those returning to their homes but was “glowing with joy” for the relatives of the captives who are finally returning.

Eitan Horn was taken from kibbutz Nir Oz in Israel’s south along with his brother.

Cautious Optimism from Family Members

Dalia Cusnir, whose relative by marriage Eitan Horn remains captive in Gaza, said she experienced like she was living “a dream state”.

“We are immensely thankful to President Trump and everything he has done for us. It seems like it might be the start of the conclusion of this ordeal, and hugging Eitan feels closer than before,” she said.

However, she warned that it was still too soon to celebrate.

“Until the last hostage is here, we’re not opening the champagne. We will continue struggling... until it’s over,” she affirmed.

“Numerous events might occur up to the final instant so this is why we’re being so, so careful. We just want to thank everyone who was involved in the work and ensure this agreement is done... We shall rejoice only once the last captive is safely home.”

Eitan was taken from Nir Oz kibbutz in southern Israel along with his brother Iair, who was freed from captivity through a truce agreement earlier in the year.

Associated Updates

• ‘Momentous opportunity’: Global response to first stage of Gaza peace deal
• What we know regarding the ‘initial stage’ of the Gaza peace deal

Israel-Gaza war | Israel | Hamas