Tel Aviv Cheers erupted in Hostages Square as news broke that seven Israeli hostages held by Hamas since the October 7, 2023 attacks have been freed and returned to Israel after 738 days in captivity.
The hostages Omri Miran, Matan Angrest, Ziv Berman, Gali Berman, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Alon Ohel, and Eitan Mor were transferred into the care of IDF and ISA forces and are undergoing medical assessments before reuniting with their families in southern Israel.
In exchange, Israel will release 250 Palestinian prisoners and more than 1,700 detainees, as part of a major dealnegotiated with Hamas. The Israel Defense Forces confirmed it is prepared to receive 13 additional hostages, expected to be transferred later today. Some of them have already contacted loved ones via video call.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which has campaigned tirelessly for their release, celebrated the breakthrough but emphasised the ongoing mission, “After 738 agonising days, they are returning to an entire nation that believed and fought for this day. But our struggle is not over. It will not end until the last hostage is located and returned for proper burial. Only then will the people of Israel be whole.”
Celebrations are continuing in Hostages Square, where families and supporters have gathered in hope and solidarity.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump is expected to arrive in Israel, followed by a trip to Egypt for a high-level summit involving 20 world leaders. En route, Trump claimed the “war is over” in Gaza though future stages of the deal still require negotiation.
Erizia Rubyjeana
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