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The announcement of an agreement projected to result in the freeing of hostages held in the Gaza Strip for more than two years has caused joy and relief across Israel.

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

The deal—still requiring agreed upon the Israeli war cabinet—will see the release of 20 hostages alive and the bodies of 28 dead hostages in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners imprisoned for life in Israeli jails plus 1,700 individuals from the Gaza region.

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

Jubilant Scenes at Hostages Square

Jubilant scenes took place in Hostages’ Square located in Tel Aviv as hundreds of people assembled ahead of the deal being signed.

The gathering started applauding and dancing under US and Israeli flags—a female attendee holding up a sign that read: “We adore Trump.”

“It’s a magical day,” the woman said.

Another, 50-year-old Yael, wept while observing the people celebrating.

“I am thrilled—it’s such a relief,” she said. “We need to see their return home to their families.”

• LIVE REACTION: Trump reveals Gaza deal
• Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians mark the agreement
• EXAMINATION: Significant progress, though conflict continues

Relatives Rejoice with Fireworks

The mom and sibling of Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker set off fireworks to mark the news of his impending homecoming.

“They are returning!... Matan is coming home!” Einav Zangauker said as she held her child.

Viki Cohen, the parent of Israeli hostage Nimrod Cohen, shared online: “My child, you are coming home.”

The joy was palpable throughout the avenues in Tel Aviv following the news.

Freed Hostages Say Prayers and Raise Glasses

Former British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari rejoiced with another freed hostage Romi Gonen, reciting prayers of thankfulness, then toasting “To life”, which means “to life”. She has advocated for the release of her companions, the Berman twins Gali and Ziv.

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

Gil Dickman’s cousin Carmel Gat was captured in October 2023, and her body recovered from 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 hardly believe this is actually happening. We’ve been waiting for so long and here it is,” he said.

He said he felt “broken” 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 coming back.

Eitan Horn was taken from Nir Oz kibbutz in southern Israel 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 “a dream state”.

“We are immensely thankful to President Trump and everything he has accomplished for us. We feel like it might be the start of the conclusion of this nightmare, and embracing Eitan feels closer than ever,” she commented.

But she cautioned that it remained too soon to celebrate.

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

“Numerous events can happen up to the final instant so this is why we are extremely cautious. We simply wish to express gratitude to all who participated in the efforts and ensure this deal is finalized... We will celebrate only when the last captive is safely home.”

Eitan was taken from kibbutz Nir Oz in southern Israel together with his sibling Iair, who was released from detainment through a truce agreement earlier in the year.

Related Developments

• ‘Momentous opportunity’: Global response to initial phase of Gaza peace deal
• What we know regarding the ‘initial stage’ of the Gaza accord

Israel-Gaza war | Israel | The group