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The announcement of an agreement projected to result in the release of hostages detained within Gaza for more than two years has generated delight and comfort throughout Israel.

A group which has campaigned for the return of Israeli hostages held in Gaza voiced “profound gratitude” for what it called an “historic breakthrough”.

The agreement—still requiring agreed upon Israel’s war cabinet—involves the return of 20 hostages alive as well as the remains of 28 dead hostages in exchange for 250 Palestinian detainees imprisoned for life in Israeli prisons and 1,700 detainees from Gaza.

So far, 148 hostages have come back—largely through previous ceasefire deals—51 bodies have been retrieved and eight hostages have been rescued.

Celebratory Moments at Hostages Square

Joyous gatherings have unfolded in Hostages’ Square in Tel Aviv with crowds of individuals assembled ahead of the agreement’s signing.

A crowd started applauding and dancing beneath US and Israeli flags—a female attendee holding up a sign saying: “We love Trump.”

“This is a wondrous day,” she expressed.

Another, Yael, aged 50, wept while observing the crowd dancing.

“I am thrilled—it is such a comfort,” she stated. “We must witness their return home to their loved ones.”

• REAL-TIME RESPONSE: Trump announces Gaza deal
• Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians celebrate the agreement
• EXAMINATION: Significant progress, 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 homecoming.

“They’re coming back!... Matan is coming home!” Einav Zangauker exclaimed as she held her child.

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

The delight could be felt throughout the avenues in Tel Aviv following the announcement.

Freed Hostages Say Prayers and Raise Glasses

Former British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari celebrated alongside another released captive Romi Gonen, reciting prayers of gratitude, then toasting “To life”, which means “to life”. She has advocated for the freedom of her friends, twins Gali and Ziv Berman.

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

The cousin of Gil Dickman Carmel Gat was captured in October 2023, with her remains found in an underground passage in Gaza almost a year later. He has participated with other hostage families in advocating for an agreement that brings the return of everyone still detained within Gaza.

“I hardly believe this is real. We have waited for such a long time and here it is,” he expressed.

He said he was “shattered” that his cousin will not be among those returning to their homes yet felt “glowing with joy” for the relatives of the hostages who are finally coming back.

Eitan Horn was taken from Nir Oz kibbutz in southern Israel together with his sibling.

Guarded Hope from Family Members

Dalia Cusnir, whose brother-in-law Eitan Horn is still held in Gaza, said she felt like she was living “in a dream”.

“We’re more than grateful 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 embracing Eitan feels closer than before,” she said.

However, she warned that it was still too early to rejoice.

“Before the final captive returns, we won’t open the champagne. We’re going to keep fighting... until the end,” she affirmed.

“So many things can happen until the last moment so this is why we are extremely cautious. We simply wish to thank everyone who participated in the efforts and ensure this deal is finalized... We shall rejoice only when we have the last hostage back home.”

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

Related Developments

• ‘Momentous opportunity’: World reacts to first stage of Gaza peace deal
• What we know about the ‘first phase’ of the Gaza peace deal

Israel-Gaza war | Israel | Hamas