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The declaration regarding a deal projected to lead to the release captives detained within Gaza for over 24 months has caused delight and comfort throughout the nation.

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

The deal—which still must be approved by Israel’s war cabinet—will see the return of 20 hostages alive and the bodies of 28 dead hostages in return for 250 Palestinian prisoners imprisoned for life in Israeli jails plus 1,700 individuals from Gaza.

So far, 148 captives have been returned—largely through earlier truce agreements—51 sets of remains have been retrieved and eight hostages were freed by rescue.

Jubilant Scenes at Hostages Square

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

The gathering started applauding and dancing beneath American and Israeli banners—a female attendee holding up a placard saying: “We adore Trump.”

“This is a wondrous day,” the woman said.

A different person, Yael, aged 50, cried as she watched the crowd dancing.

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

• LIVE REACTION: Trump announces Gaza deal
• Joy and pain: Palestinians mark the agreement
• ANALYSIS: Significant progress, though conflict continues

Relatives Rejoice Using Pyrotechnics

The mom and sibling of Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker set off fireworks in celebration of the announcement of his impending homecoming.

“They are returning!... Matan is on his way home!” Einav Zangauker said while holding her daughter.

Viki Cohen, the parent of captive Israeli Nimrod Cohen, shared online: “My son, you are returning home.”

The delight could be felt in the streets in Tel Aviv following the news.

Freed Hostages Say Prayers and Raise Glasses

Former British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari rejoiced alongside another released captive Romi Gonen, uttering blessings of thankfulness, then cheering “L’chaim”, meaning “to life”. She has advocated for the release of her companions, the Berman twins Gali and Ziv.

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

Gil Dickman’s cousin Carmel Gat was taken hostage in October 2023, and her body recovered from a tunnel in Gaza almost a year later. He has been joining other captives’ relatives in pushing for a deal that brings the homecoming of everyone still detained within Gaza.

“I hardly believe this is real. We’ve been waiting for such a long time and here it is,” he expressed.

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

Eitan Horn was taken from kibbutz Nir Oz in southern Israel along with his brother.

Guarded Hope from Relatives

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

“We’re more than grateful to the President and everything he has done on our behalf. We feel that this could be the beginning of the end of this ordeal, and embracing Eitan seems nearer than before,” she commented.

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

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

“So many things might occur up to the final instant which is why we are extremely cautious. We simply wish to thank everyone who participated in the work and ensure this deal is finalized... We shall rejoice only when the last captive is back home.”

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

Associated Updates

• ‘Historic chance’: Global response to first stage of Gaza peace deal
• Known details regarding the ‘initial stage’ of the Gaza accord

Israel-Gaza conflict | The nation | The group