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The declaration regarding a deal expected to result in the freeing of hostages detained within Gaza for more than two years has generated delight and comfort throughout Israel.

A group which has campaigned for the return of Israeli captives held in Gaza voiced “profound gratitude” for what it called an “historic breakthrough”.

The deal—still requiring approved by the Israeli war cabinet—involves the return of 20 living hostages and the bodies of 28 deceased captives in return for 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences in Israeli prisons and 1,700 detainees from the Gaza region.

To date, 148 hostages have been returned—most as part of previous ceasefire deals—51 bodies have been retrieved and eight hostages were freed by rescue.

Celebratory Moments in Hostages’ Square

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

The gathering started applauding and dancing beneath American and Israeli banners—one woman holding up a sign that read: “We love Trump.”

“It’s a magical day,” the woman said.

A different person, 50-year-old Yael, wept as she watched the people celebrating.

“I’m very excited—it’s such a relief,” she stated. “We need to see them come back home to their loved ones.”

• LIVE REACTION: Trump announces Gaza agreement
• Joy and pain: Palestinians celebrate the agreement
• EXAMINATION: Major breakthrough, though conflict continues

Relatives Rejoice with Fireworks

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

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

Viki Cohen, the mother of Israeli hostage Nimrod Cohen, posted on social media: “My son, you are returning home.”

The joy could be felt throughout the avenues in Tel Aviv following the news.

Freed Hostages Say Prayers and Raise Glasses

Ex-captive of British-Israeli origin Emily Damari rejoiced alongside another released captive Romi Gonen, reciting prayers of thankfulness, then cheering “L’chaim”, meaning “to life”. She has been campaigning for the release of her companions, twins Gali and Ziv Berman.

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

The cousin of Gil Dickman Carmel Gat was captured in October 2023, and her body found in a tunnel in Gaza almost a year later. He has participated with other hostage families in advocating for a deal that brings the return of everyone still detained in Gaza.

“I hardly believe this is actually happening. We have waited for such a long time and here it is,” he said.

He stated he was “broken” that his cousin would not be among those returning home but was “radiant with happiness” for the relatives of the hostages who are finally returning.

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

Guarded Hope from Relatives

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

“We are immensely thankful to President Trump and everything he has done on our behalf. We feel like it might be the start of the conclusion of this ordeal, and hugging Eitan seems nearer than ever,” she said.

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

“Until the last hostage is here, we won’t open the bubbly. We’re going to keep fighting... until the end,” she affirmed.

“Numerous events can happen until the last moment which is why we are extremely cautious. We simply wish to express gratitude to all who was involved in the efforts and make sure this deal is finalized... We shall rejoice only when the last captive is back home.”

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

Related Developments

• ‘Historic chance’: World reacts to initial phase of Gaza agreement
• Known details about the ‘first phase’ of the Gaza peace deal

Israel-Gaza conflict | The nation | Hamas