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The announcement of an agreement projected to result in the release of hostages detained within Gaza for more than 24 months has caused delight and comfort throughout Israel.

An organization which has campaigned for the return of Israeli hostages held in Gaza voiced “deep appreciation” for what it called an “historic breakthrough”.

The agreement—still requiring approved by Israel’s war cabinet—will see the return of 20 hostages alive as well as the remains of 28 deceased captives in return for 250 Palestinian prisoners imprisoned for life in Israeli prisons and 1,700 detainees from Gaza.

So far, 148 captives have been returned—most as part of previous ceasefire deals—51 bodies have been recovered while eight hostages have been rescued.

Celebratory Moments in Hostages’ Square

Joyous gatherings took place in Hostages’ Square located in Tel Aviv with crowds of individuals assembled ahead of the deal being signed.

A crowd started applauding and dancing under American and Israeli banners—one woman displaying a sign that read: “We adore Trump.”

“It’s a magical day,” the woman said.

A different person, 50-year-old Yael, wept while observing the people celebrating.

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

• LIVE REACTION: Trump reveals Gaza deal
• Joy and pain: Palestinians mark deal
• EXAMINATION: Significant progress, though conflict continues

Families Celebrate Using Pyrotechnics

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

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

Viki Cohen, the mother of captive Israeli Nimrod Cohen, posted on social media: “My child, you are coming home.”

The delight was palpable in the streets in Tel Aviv following the news.

Released Captives Offer Prayers and Raise Glasses

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

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

Gil Dickman’s cousin Carmel Gat was captured on 7 October 2023, and her body recovered from an underground passage in Gaza almost a year later. He has been joining other hostage families in pushing for an agreement which ensures the return of all those still being held within Gaza.

“I can’t quite believe this is actually happening. We have waited for so long and now it’s here,” he expressed.

He said he felt “shattered” that his cousin would not be among those returning to their homes but was “radiant with happiness” for the families of the hostages who are at last returning.

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

Guarded Hope from Relatives

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

“We’re more than grateful to President Trump and all he has accomplished on our behalf. We feel that this could be the start of the conclusion of this nightmare, and embracing Eitan feels closer than before,” she commented.

But she cautioned that it remained too early to celebrate.

“Before the final captive returns, we’re not opening the champagne. We’re going to keep fighting... until it’s over,” she said.

“Numerous events might occur up to the final instant which is why we’re being so, so careful. We just want to thank everyone who participated in the efforts and ensure this deal is finalized... We shall rejoice only when the last captive is back home.”

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

Related Developments

• ‘Momentous opportunity’: Global response to first stage of Gaza peace deal
• Known details about the ‘first phase’ of the Gaza accord

Israel-Gaza conflict | Israel | Hamas