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The declaration of an agreement projected to lead to the release of hostages detained within Gaza for more than 24 months has generated delight and comfort throughout the nation.

An organization that has advocated for the return of Israeli hostages held in Gaza expressed “deep appreciation” for what it termed a “landmark achievement”.

The deal—still requiring agreed upon Israel’s war cabinet—involves the return of 20 living hostages and the bodies of 28 dead hostages in return for 250 Palestinian detainees serving life sentences in Israeli prisons and 1,700 detainees from Gaza.

So far, 148 hostages have been returned—largely through previous ceasefire deals—51 sets of remains have been recovered and eight hostages were freed by rescue.

Celebratory Moments at Hostages Square

Joyous gatherings took place at Hostages Square located in Tel Aviv as hundreds of people gathered ahead of the agreement’s signing.

The gathering started applauding and moving to music beneath American and Israeli banners—one woman displaying a placard that read: “We adore Trump.”

“It’s a magical day,” the woman said.

Another, Yael, aged 50, wept as she watched the crowd dancing.

“I’m very excited—it is such a comfort,” she stated. “We need to see them come back home to their families.”

• REAL-TIME RESPONSE: Trump announces Gaza agreement
• Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians mark the agreement
• ANALYSIS: Major breakthrough, though conflict continues

Families Celebrate with Fireworks

The mother and sister of Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker lit fireworks to mark the announcement of his impending returned home.

“They’re coming back!... Matan is coming home!” Einav Zangauker said while holding her child.

Viki Cohen, the mother of Israeli hostage Nimrod Cohen, shared online: “My child, you are coming home.”

The joy was palpable in the streets of Tel Aviv following the news.

Released Captives Offer Prayers and Raise Glasses

Ex-captive of British-Israeli origin Emily Damari rejoiced with another freed hostage Romi Gonen, uttering blessings of thankfulness, then cheering “L’chaim”, meaning “to life”. She has been campaigning for the freedom of her companions, twins Gali and Ziv Berman.

Their brother Liran Berman wrote: “My Gali and Ziv, I love you so much. You are coming back.”

Gil Dickman’s cousin Carmel Gat was taken hostage on 7 October 2023, with her remains recovered from an underground passage in Gaza nearly a year after. He has participated with other hostage families in pushing for an agreement that brings the return 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 “shattered” that his cousin would not be among those coming back home but was “radiant with happiness” for the families of the captives who are finally coming back.

Eitan Horn was taken from kibbutz Nir Oz in southern Israel along with his brother.

Cautious Optimism from Family Members

Dalia Cusnir, whose brother-in-law Eitan Horn remains captive in Gaza, said she experienced like she was living “in a dream”.

“We are immensely thankful to the President and all he has accomplished on our behalf. We feel that this could be the beginning of the end of this ordeal, and embracing Eitan seems nearer than ever,” she commented.

But she cautioned that it was still too soon to rejoice.

“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 which is why we’re being so, so careful. We just want to express gratitude to all who was involved in the efforts and make sure this deal is finalized... We shall rejoice only once the last captive is safely home.”

Eitan was taken from kibbutz Nir Oz in Israel’s south together with his sibling Iair, who was freed from detainment through a truce agreement earlier in the year.

Associated Updates

• ‘Historic chance’: Global response to initial phase of Gaza peace deal
• Known details regarding the ‘initial stage’ of the Gaza accord

Israel-Gaza war | Israel | Hamas