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The declaration regarding a deal expected to lead to the freeing captives detained within Gaza for more than two years has caused delight and relief across Israel.

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

The agreement—which still must be agreed upon the Israeli war cabinet—will see the return of 20 hostages alive and the bodies of 28 dead hostages in return for 250 Palestinian detainees serving life sentences in Israeli prisons plus 1,700 individuals from the Gaza region.

To date, 148 hostages have come back—largely through previous ceasefire deals—51 bodies have been retrieved while eight hostages have been rescued.

Jubilant Scenes at Hostages Square

Jubilant scenes have unfolded in Hostages’ Square in Tel Aviv as hundreds of people gathered before the agreement’s signing.

The gathering started applauding and dancing under US and Israeli flags—one woman displaying a placard saying: “We love Trump.”

“This is a wondrous 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 reveals Gaza agreement
• Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians celebrate deal
• EXAMINATION: Significant progress, though conflict continues

Relatives Rejoice Using Pyrotechnics

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

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

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

The joy could be felt in the streets of Tel Aviv after 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 “to life”. She has been campaigning for the freedom of her companions, twins Gali and Ziv Berman.

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

The cousin of Gil Dickman Carmel Gat was taken hostage in October 2023, and her body found in an underground passage in Gaza nearly a year after. He has been joining other captives’ relatives in pushing for a deal which ensures the return of all those still being held within Gaza.

“I can’t quite believe this is real. We have waited for such a long time and here it is,” he expressed.

He stated he was “broken” that his cousin will not be among those coming back home but was “glowing with joy” for the families of the captives who are at last coming back.

Eitan Horn was seized from kibbutz Nir Oz in southern Israel together with his sibling.

Guarded Hope from Family Members

Dalia Cusnir, whose relative by marriage Eitan Horn is still held in Gaza, said she experienced like she was living “in a dream”.

“We’re more than grateful to the President and all he has accomplished on our behalf. It seems that this could be the start of the conclusion of this ordeal, and embracing Eitan seems nearer than ever,” she commented.

But she cautioned that it remained too soon to celebrate.

“Until the last hostage returns, we’re not opening the champagne. We will continue struggling... until it’s over,” she said.

“Numerous events can happen up to the final instant which is why we’re being so, so careful. We simply wish to thank everyone who participated in the efforts and make sure this agreement is done... We shall rejoice only when we have the last hostage safely home.”

Eitan was taken from kibbutz Nir Oz in southern Israel along with his brother Iair, who was released from captivity in a ceasefire deal earlier this year.

Related Developments

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

Israel-Gaza war | Israel | The group