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The declaration regarding a deal expected to lead to the release captives held in the Gaza Strip for more than two years has caused joy and comfort across Israel.

An organization that has advocated for the return of Israeli captives held in Gaza voiced “deep appreciation” for what it termed an “historic breakthrough”.

The deal—still requiring approved by Israel’s war cabinet—involves the release of 20 living hostages as well as the remains of 28 deceased captives in exchange for 250 Palestinian detainees imprisoned for life in Israeli prisons plus 1,700 individuals from Gaza.

So far, 148 hostages have come back—most as part of earlier truce agreements—51 sets of remains have been retrieved and eight hostages were freed by rescue.

Jubilant Scenes in Hostages’ Square

Jubilant scenes have unfolded at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv with crowds of individuals assembled before the agreement’s signing.

The gathering began clapping and moving to music under US and Israeli flags—one woman displaying a placard that read: “We love Trump.”

“This is a wondrous day,” she expressed.

Another, Yael, aged 50, wept while observing the people celebrating.

“I am thrilled—it’s such a relief,” she stated. “We need to see their return home to their loved ones.”

• REAL-TIME RESPONSE: Trump announces Gaza deal
• Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians mark deal
• EXAMINATION: Significant progress, but war not over yet

Families Celebrate with Fireworks

The mother and sister of Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker lit fireworks in celebration of the announcement that he would be returned home.

“They are returning!... Matan is on his way home!” Einav Zangauker exclaimed while holding her child.

Viki Cohen, the parent of Israeli hostage Nimrod Cohen, shared online: “My son, you are returning home.”

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

Freed Hostages Say Prayers and Toasts

Former British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari rejoiced with another freed hostage Romi Gonen, uttering blessings of thankfulness, then toasting “To life”, meaning “to life”. She has advocated for the freedom of her companions, the Berman twins Gali and Ziv.

Their sibling Liran Berman posted: “My dear Gali and Ziv, I adore you. You’re coming home.”

Gil Dickman’s cousin Carmel Gat was captured in October 2023, with her remains recovered from an underground passage in Gaza nearly a year after. He has participated with other captives’ relatives in pushing for an agreement which ensures the homecoming of everyone still detained within Gaza.

“I hardly believe this is actually happening. We’ve been waiting for such a long time and now it’s here,” he said.

He said he felt “broken” that Carmel would not be among those returning to their homes but was “glowing with joy” for the families of the hostages who are finally returning.

Eitan Horn was seized from Nir Oz kibbutz in Israel’s south along with his brother.

Cautious Optimism from Relatives

Dalia Cusnir, whose relative by marriage Eitan Horn is still held in Gaza, said she experienced as if she were in “in a dream”.

“We’re more than grateful to the President and all he has accomplished for us. We feel that this could be the start of the conclusion of this nightmare, and hugging Eitan feels closer than ever,” she commented.

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

“Until the last hostage is here, we’re not opening the bubbly. We will continue struggling... until the end,” she affirmed.

“So many things can happen up to the final instant which is why we’re being so, so careful. We just want to thank everyone who was involved in the efforts and make sure this deal is finalized... We will celebrate only once the last captive is safely home.”

Eitan was taken from kibbutz Nir Oz in southern Israel along with his brother Iair, who was released from captivity through a truce agreement earlier in the year.

Associated Updates

• ‘Historic chance’: Global response to initial phase of Gaza peace deal
• What we know regarding the ‘initial stage’ of the Gaza peace deal

Israel-Gaza war | The nation | Hamas