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The declaration regarding a deal projected to lead to the freeing of hostages detained within Gaza for over two years has caused joy and relief across the nation.

An organization that has advocated for the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza voiced “profound gratitude” for what it termed a “landmark achievement”.

The agreement—still requiring agreed upon Israel’s war cabinet—will see the return of 20 living hostages and the bodies of 28 deceased captives in return for 250 Palestinian detainees imprisoned for life in Israeli jails and 1,700 detainees from Gaza.

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

Celebratory Moments at Hostages Square

Jubilant scenes have unfolded at Hostages Square located 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 sign saying: “We adore Trump.”

“It’s a magical day,” the woman said.

Another, Yael, aged 50, wept as she watched the people celebrating.

“I am thrilled—it is such a comfort,” she said. “We must witness them come back home to their families.”

• REAL-TIME RESPONSE: Trump announces Gaza deal
• Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians mark deal
• EXAMINATION: Major breakthrough, though conflict continues

Relatives Rejoice with Fireworks

The mother and sister of a captive Israeli Matan Zangauker lit fireworks to mark the announcement that he would be returned home.

“They are returning!... 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 was palpable throughout the avenues of Tel Aviv after the news.

Freed Hostages Offer Prayers and Raise Glasses

Ex-captive of British-Israeli origin Emily Damari rejoiced with another freed hostage Romi Gonen, uttering blessings of gratitude, then toasting “To life”, which means “for life”. She has been campaigning for the freedom of her friends, the Berman twins Gali and Ziv.

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

The cousin of Gil Dickman Carmel Gat was taken hostage in October 2023, with her remains found in an underground passage in Gaza nearly a year after. He has participated with other captives’ relatives in pushing for an agreement which ensures the return of all those still detained in 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 was “shattered” that Carmel would not be among those coming back to their homes yet felt “radiant with happiness” for the relatives of the captives who are at last returning.

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

Cautious Optimism from Family Members

Dalia Cusnir, whose brother-in-law Eitan Horn remains captive in Gaza, said she experienced like she was living “in a dream”.

“We’re more than grateful to the President and all he has done for us. It seems like it might be the start of the conclusion of this nightmare, and hugging Eitan seems nearer than ever,” she said.

However, she warned that it remained too early to celebrate.

“Before the final captive is here, we’re not opening the bubbly. We’re going to keep fighting... until the end,” she said.

“Numerous events might occur up to the final instant so this is why we’re being so, so careful. We just want to express gratitude to all who participated in the work and make sure this deal is finalized... We shall rejoice only once the last captive is safely home.”

Eitan was taken from Nir Oz kibbutz in Israel’s south together with his sibling Iair, who was released from captivity in a ceasefire deal earlier this year.

Associated Updates

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

Israel-Gaza war | Israel | The group