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The announcement regarding a deal expected to lead to the freeing of hostages held within Gaza for over two years has caused delight and relief across Israel.

A group that has advocated for the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza expressed “deep appreciation” for what it termed an “historic breakthrough”.

The agreement—still requiring approved by Israel’s war cabinet—involves the return of 20 hostages alive and the bodies of 28 deceased captives in return for 250 Palestinian detainees imprisoned for life in Israeli prisons plus 1,700 individuals from Gaza.

So far, 148 hostages have come back—most as part of earlier truce agreements—51 sets of remains have been retrieved and eight hostages have been rescued.

Jubilant Scenes in Hostages’ Square

Jubilant scenes have unfolded at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv with crowds of individuals gathered before the agreement’s signing.

The gathering started applauding and dancing under US and Israeli flags—a female attendee displaying a placard 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 stated. “We must witness them come back home to their families.”

• LIVE REACTION: Trump announces Gaza deal
• Joy and pain: Palestinians mark the agreement
• ANALYSIS: Significant progress, but war not over yet

Families Celebrate Using Pyrotechnics

The mother and sister of Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker lit fireworks to mark the news that he would be returned home.

“They’re coming back!... Matan is on his way home!” Einav Zangauker said as she held her daughter.

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

The joy was palpable in the streets in Tel Aviv following the announcement.

Released Captives Say Prayers and Raise Glasses

Former British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari celebrated alongside another released captive Romi Gonen, reciting prayers of gratitude, then toasting “L’chaim”, meaning “for life”. She has been campaigning for the release of her companions, twins Gali and Ziv Berman.

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

The cousin of Gil Dickman Carmel Gat was taken hostage in October 2023, and her body found in a tunnel in Gaza almost a year later. He has been joining other captives’ relatives in pushing for an agreement that brings the homecoming of all those still being held within Gaza.

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

He stated he was “broken” that Carmel would not be among those returning to their homes yet felt “radiant with happiness” for the relatives of the captives who are at last returning.

Eitan Horn was seized from kibbutz Nir Oz 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, said she felt like she was living “in a dream”.

“We are immensely thankful to President Trump and all he has done on our behalf. It seems that this could 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 early to rejoice.

“Until the last hostage is here, we won’t open the champagne. We’re going to keep fighting... until it’s over,” she said.

“Numerous events might occur up to the final instant so this is why we are extremely cautious. We just want to thank everyone who participated in the efforts and make sure this agreement is done... We shall rejoice only when the last captive is 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 in the year.

Associated Updates

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

Israel-Gaza conflict | Israel | Hamas