TEL AVIV – Tears of joy and overwhelming relief erupted across Israel Friday as news spread of an agreement to release hostages held by Hamas, culminating months of intense negotiations and fervent public pressure. The deal, brokered with assistance from former U.S. President Donald Trump,is expected to see the return of 48 Israeli citizens,both living and deceased,held captive in Gaza.
The agreement marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, offering a measure of solace to families who have endured agonizing uncertainty since the October 7th attacks. While details remain fluid, the phased release is anticipated to begin in the coming days, bringing an end to a chapter of national trauma and raising hopes for a broader resolution to the conflict. President Isaac Herzog affirmed, “All of Israel stands with the hostages,” echoing the sentiment in a post on X, adding a verse from Jeremiah: “They shall return from the land of the enemy… and children shall return to their own borders.”
President Herzog and his wife, Michal, joined a nationwide protest in Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, underscoring the collective national focus on securing the captives’ return.Defense Minister Israel Katz lauded Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu “for the leadership that led to the deal,” and praised “the heroic IDF soldiers whose courage, determination and incredible sacrifice brought us to this great moment.”
Opposition Leader Yair Lapid expressed gratitude to Trump, stating Israel was “waiting for our children with bated breath.” Benny Gantz of Blue and White-National Unity wrote on social media, “All our hearts are with the 48 families, hoping and praying for the release of everyone – the living to the bosoms of their loved ones, and the dead for a proper burial in the soil of Israel.”
Even Minister Yitzhak Wasserlauf of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, previously opposed to ceasefire deals that didn’t guarantee the return of all captives, welcomed the agreement, stating, “everyone will return home… without anyone remaining behind.” the families of the hostages are preparing for an emotional reunion,while the nation collectively anticipates the return of their loved ones.
