US President Donald Trump has announced an agreement anticipated to facilitate the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip for over two years. This news has generated a sense of relief among some Israeli families of hostages. The Hostages Families Forum, which advocates for the return of Israeli captives, expressed gratitude to Trump, describing the agreement as a significant development.
The proposed deal, pending approval from Israel’s war cabinet, involves the release of 20 living hostages and the bodies of 28 deceased hostages in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences in Israel and 1,700 detainees from Gaza. To date, a total of 148 hostages have been returned, with 51 bodies recovered and eight hostages rescued.
Following the announcement, a large crowd gathered in Hostages’ Square in Tel Aviv, where people displayed US and Israeli flags and celebrated in various ways. Many expressed hope and excitement regarding the potential return of loved ones. Statements from family members of hostages reflected both joy for the news and acknowledgment of the ongoing struggle for those still unaccounted for.
One former hostage, Emily Damari, celebrated the agreement while others, like Liran Berman, who lost his sister, expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging both relief for families receiving good news and sorrow for those still waiting. Dalia Cusnir, whose brother-in-law Eitan Horn remains captive, highlighted the cautious optimism felt by families, emphasizing that celebrations will be reserved until all hostages are safely home.
As anticipation builds, families remain vigilant, understanding that until every hostage is returned, the situation remains precarious.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ce9rl9krm0do?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss