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The announcement regarding a deal projected to lead to the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip for more than two years has caused delight and comfort throughout the nation.

An organization that has advocated for the release of Israeli captives in Gaza expressed “deep appreciation” for what it called a “landmark achievement”.

The deal—which still must be approved by the Israeli war cabinet—involves the release of 20 hostages alive and the bodies of 28 deceased captives in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners imprisoned for life in Israeli prisons plus 1,700 individuals from Gaza.

So far, 148 hostages have been returned—largely through previous ceasefire deals—51 sets of remains have been recovered and eight hostages have been rescued.

Celebratory Moments at Hostages Square

Joyous gatherings have unfolded at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv with crowds of individuals assembled ahead of the deal being signed.

A crowd started applauding and moving to music under US and Israeli flags—a female attendee holding up a sign that read: “We adore Trump.”

“It’s a magical day,” the woman said.

Another, 50-year-old Yael, wept while observing the people celebrating.

“I’m very excited—it is such a comfort,” she stated. “We need to see them come back home to their families.”

• REAL-TIME RESPONSE: Trump announces Gaza deal
• Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians celebrate the agreement
• ANALYSIS: Significant progress, though conflict continues

Relatives Rejoice with Fireworks

The mother and sister of Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker set off fireworks to mark the announcement that he would be homecoming.

“They’re coming back!... Matan is on his way home!” Einav Zangauker said as she held her daughter.

Viki Cohen, the mother of Israeli hostage Nimrod Cohen, posted on social media: “My son, you are returning home.”

The joy was palpable in the streets in Tel Aviv after the news.

Freed Hostages Offer Prayers and Toasts

Former British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari celebrated with another freed hostage Romi Gonen, uttering blessings of gratitude, then toasting “To life”, which means “for life”. She has advocated for the release of her companions, twins Gali and Ziv Berman.

Their brother Liran Berman posted: “My Gali and Ziv, I love you so much. You are coming back.”

The cousin of Gil Dickman Carmel Gat was captured in October 2023, with her remains found in a tunnel in Gaza nearly a year after. He has participated with other hostage families in pushing for a deal which ensures the homecoming of everyone still detained within Gaza.

“I hardly believe this is actually happening. We have waited for so long and here it is,” he said.

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

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

Guarded Hope from Family Members

Dalia Cusnir, whose relative by marriage Eitan Horn remains captive in Gaza, said she felt like she was living “in a dream”.

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

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

“Before the final captive is here, we’re not opening the bubbly. We will continue struggling... until it’s over,” she affirmed.

“So many things might occur up to the final instant so this is why we are extremely cautious. We just want to express gratitude to all who was involved in the efforts and make sure this deal is finalized... We will celebrate only when the last captive is safely home.”

Eitan was captured from kibbutz Nir Oz in southern Israel along with his brother Iair, who was freed from detainment through a truce agreement earlier this year.

Associated Updates

• ‘Historic chance’: World reacts to initial phase of Gaza peace deal
• Known details about the ‘first phase’ of the Gaza peace deal

Israel-Gaza war | The nation | Hamas