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The declaration regarding a deal projected to result in the freeing of hostages detained in the Gaza Strip for more than two years has generated delight and relief across Israel.

A group which has campaigned for the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza expressed “profound gratitude” for what it called a “landmark achievement”.

The agreement—still requiring approved by Israel’s war cabinet—will see the release of 20 living hostages and the bodies of 28 dead hostages in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners imprisoned for life in Israeli jails and 1,700 detainees from the Gaza region.

So far, 148 hostages have been returned—most as part of earlier truce agreements—51 sets of remains have been recovered while eight hostages were freed by rescue.

Celebratory Moments in Hostages’ Square

Joyous gatherings took place in Hostages’ Square in Tel Aviv with crowds of individuals gathered before the deal being signed.

A crowd started applauding and dancing under American and Israeli banners—a female attendee holding up a placard saying: “We adore Trump.”

“This is a wondrous day,” she expressed.

Another, 50-year-old Yael, wept as she watched the people celebrating.

“I am thrilled—it’s such a relief,” she said. “We need to see them come back home to their loved ones.”

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

Relatives Rejoice with Fireworks

The mom and sibling of a captive Israeli Matan Zangauker set off fireworks in celebration of the announcement that he would be returned home.

“They are returning!... Matan is on his way home!” Einav Zangauker exclaimed as she held her child.

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

The joy was palpable in the streets of Tel Aviv following the news.

Released Captives Say Prayers and Toasts

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

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

The cousin of Gil Dickman Carmel Gat was captured on 7 October 2023, with her remains recovered from a tunnel in Gaza nearly a year after. He has participated with other captives’ relatives in pushing for an agreement that brings the homecoming of everyone still being held within Gaza.

“I hardly believe this is real. We have waited for such a long time and now it’s here,” he said.

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

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

Guarded Hope from Family Members

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

“We are immensely thankful to the President and everything he has accomplished for us. We feel that this could be the start of the conclusion of this ordeal, and embracing Eitan seems nearer than before,” she said.

However, she warned that it remained too soon to rejoice.

“Before the final captive is here, we won’t open the bubbly. We’re going to keep fighting... until it’s over,” she said.

“Numerous events can happen up to the final instant so this is why we are extremely cautious. We simply wish to thank everyone who participated in the efforts and ensure this agreement is done... We will celebrate only once we have the last hostage back home.”

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

Associated Updates

• ‘Historic chance’: World reacts to first stage of Gaza peace deal
• What we know regarding the ‘initial stage’ of the Gaza peace deal

Israel-Gaza conflict | The nation | The group