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The declaration of an agreement projected to result in the freeing of hostages detained in the Gaza Strip for more than two years has caused joy and comfort throughout Israel.

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

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

To date, 148 captives have come back—most as part of earlier truce agreements—51 bodies have been retrieved while eight hostages were freed by rescue.

Celebratory Moments in Hostages’ Square

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

The gathering began clapping and dancing under American and Israeli banners—a female attendee holding up a sign saying: “We adore Trump.”

“It’s a magical day,” the woman said.

Another, 50-year-old Yael, wept as she watched the crowd dancing.

“I’m very excited—it is such a comfort,” she said. “We must witness their return home to their loved ones.”

• LIVE REACTION: Trump announces Gaza agreement
• Happiness and sorrow: Palestinians celebrate the agreement
• ANALYSIS: Significant progress, though conflict continues

Families Celebrate with Fireworks

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

“They’re coming back!... Matan is coming home!” Einav Zangauker said while holding her daughter.

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

The delight could be felt throughout the avenues in Tel Aviv after the news.

Released Captives Offer Prayers and Toasts

Ex-captive of British-Israeli origin Emily Damari celebrated with another freed hostage Romi Gonen, uttering blessings of gratitude, then toasting “To life”, meaning “to life”. She has advocated for the release of her friends, twins Gali and Ziv Berman.

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

The cousin of Gil Dickman Carmel Gat was taken hostage on 7 October 2023, with her remains found in a tunnel in Gaza almost a year later. He has participated with other captives’ relatives in pushing for a deal that brings the return of everyone still being held within Gaza.

“I can’t quite believe this is actually happening. We have waited for so long and now it’s here,” he expressed.

He stated he was “broken” that Carmel will not be among those coming back home but was “radiant with happiness” for the families of the captives who are at last returning.

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

Cautious Optimism from Family Members

Dalia Cusnir, whose relative by marriage Eitan Horn remains captive in Gaza, said she felt like she was living “in a dream”.

“We are immensely thankful to President Trump 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 commented.

But she cautioned that it was still 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 affirmed.

“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 shall rejoice only once we have the last hostage safely home.”

Eitan was taken from kibbutz Nir Oz in Israel’s south along with his brother Iair, who was released from detainment through a truce agreement earlier this year.

Associated Updates

• ‘Momentous opportunity’: World reacts to first stage of Gaza agreement
• Known details about the ‘first phase’ of the Gaza accord

Israel-Gaza war | The nation | The group