On October 9, 2023, the Israeli military released footage showing the emotional reunion of Matan Zangauker, 25, with his mother after he was freed as one of 20 living hostages held by Hamas in Gaza since the attacks on October 7, 2023. Zangauker was in captivity for two years, while his partner, Ilana Gritzewsky, was released during a ceasefire the following month. His mother, Einav Zangauker, has been a prominent advocate for the return of hostages and participated in celebrations in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square following a recent ceasefire agreement.
The freed hostages were welcomed by crowds in Tel Aviv, where supporters waved flags and displayed signs celebrating their return. Zangauker’s family expressed relief and shared sentiments that their new chapter begins with healing. Similar feelings were echoed by families of other released hostages, such as Eitan Horn and Evyatar David, both of whom had also faced their own harrowing experiences in captivity.
The International Committee of the Red Cross facilitated the handover of hostages, who were reunified with their families and then flown to medical facilities for treatment. Celebrations erupted across Israel as military helicopters transported the freed hostages, indicating a national moment of relief and solidarity.
Despite the joyous reunions, many families of hostages who did not return remain in waiting. Hamas announced that only four bodies out of 28 deceased hostages would be released, a situation complicated by forensic identification processes. Furthermore, the ceasefire agreement also included the release of about 250 Palestinian prisoners and approximately 1,700 detainees held by Israel without charge. The Israeli Defense Forces urged Hamas to fulfill its obligations regarding the deceased, emphasizing that closure for families depends on obtaining all bodies. Matan’s family affirmed their commitment to support bereaved families until all hostages are safely returned.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cyv8p8m4qg6o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss