Families of Israelis held hostage in Gaza have expressed hope that U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent peace plan might lead to the return of their loved ones. Vicky Cohen, whose son Nimrod is among the hostages, conveyed mixed emotions as she reported feeling hope alongside anxiety about potential setbacks. Nimrod was kidnapped near the Gaza border during attacks on October 7, 2023, where a total of 251 individuals were taken captive and approximately 1,200 were killed.
On Friday, Hamas indicated a willingness to negotiate the release of Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, while seeking further discussions about specific aspects of Trump’s peace proposal. Following Hamas’s communication, Trump remarked on Truth Social that he believed there was a readiness for a “lasting peace,” urging Israel to cease military actions in Gaza to facilitate the hostages’ safe return. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded by stating that Israel was preparing to initiate the first phase of the plan concerning the hostages’ release.
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas are expected to recommence in Egypt soon. Family members of hostages, such as Udi Goren, expressed optimism about a potential agreement, noting the involvement of Trump and support from various parties, including Arab nations. Goren emphasized the need for actionable solutions to ensure a better future for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The family of hostage Eitan Horn shared their belief that, for the first time in months, the release of their loved one might be approaching, though they acknowledged their hope is clouded by significant fear regarding the ongoing conditions faced by the hostages. Gil Dickman, reflecting on his own experience with a missed opportunity for a ceasefire, noted that while Hamas had expressed both agreement and disagreement with Trump’s plan, their willingness to pursue negotiations was a crucial step in potentially resolving the conflict.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cly9e6mnve9o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss