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After 471 Days in Captivity, Three Israeli Hostages Finally Home in Historic Ceasefire Move

Israel has successfully secured the release of three hostages held by Hamas for over a year and a half. On Sunday, Romi Gnen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher, who had been in captivity since October 7, 2023, were handed over to Israeli forces as part of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas.

The hostages’ release marks the beginning of a long-awaited process to reunite dozens of Israeli civilians who were abducted during Hamas’s deadly assault on Israel in October 2023, which killed more than 1,200 people. The three women had spent 471 days in captivity in Gaza before finally being returned to Israeli territory.

The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed the release, sharing the news with the public in a brief statement,

“They’re home,” along with a photo of the three hostages being reunited with Israeli officials.

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Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his gratitude, saying, “The Government of Israel embraces the three women who have returned. Their families have been updated by the relevant authorities that they are with our forces.”

Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s commitment to the release of all hostages still held in Gaza, emphasising that the government would not rest until all captives were brought home.

The three hostages were among over 200 Israeli citizens taken hostage by Hamas during its attack on southern Israel. Emily Tehila Damari, who marked her 28th birthday in captivity, and Doron Steinbrecher, who turned 31 while imprisoned, were both abducted from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Romi Gnen, who was taken from the ‘Nova’ music festival, celebrated her 24th birthday in captivity. Their release is a moment of immense relief for their families and the entire nation, who have endured a prolonged period of uncertainty.

IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, in a statement on Sunday, celebrated the return of the three hostages, calling it a “momentous day.” He detailed their arrival back in Israeli territory, saying,

“Today, as part of these ongoing efforts, we welcomed home three hostages, three young women, after 471 days in Hamas captivity… Today, we salute and embrace them and their families as they reunite after so long.”

The hostages underwent an initial medical assessment upon their return, with IDF medical teams accompanying them as they were transferred to the reception centre before being taken to the hospital for further care.

This first phase of the ceasefire, which went into effect on Sunday at 11:15 am local time, also sets the framework for the release of additional hostages in the coming weeks. According to Rear Admiral Hagari, three to four hostages will be released each week as part of the ongoing ceasefire deal. The deal also includes provisions for much-needed humanitarian aid to be delivered to Gaza, marking the first real steps toward peace since the outbreak of hostilities in October 2023.

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However, Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu had earlier warned that the agreement would not move forward unless Hamas provided a full list of hostages to be released, making it clear that any violations of the deal would “not be tolerated.” Despite the tensions, the deal was finally activated, with Netanyahu reaffirming the government’s commitment to securing the release of all hostages still held by Hamas.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog also welcomed the hostages’ return, addressing the nation in a statement that captured the emotional weight of the moment. “Romi, Emily, and Doron–so beloved and missed–an entire nation rejoices at your return,” Herzog said.

“This is a day of joy and comfort and the beginning of a challenging journey of recovery and healing together. The eyes weep bitterly, and the heart rejoices.”

Herzog’s message underscored the stark contrast between the joy of the returning hostages and the ongoing anguish of those still held by Hamas. “At this moment, our hearts are with all the anxious and grieving families whose loved ones have not yet returned,” Herzog added, vowing that Israel would not rest until all hostages are freed and those lost in the conflict are given the dignity they deserve.

As the first phase of the ceasefire progresses, Israel remains hopeful that the next stages will see the continued release of hostages. The IDF has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe return of all those still held in Gaza under “inhumane conditions.” The agreement is expected to last approximately 42 days, and the international community is watching closely as both sides work through the complexities of the ceasefire and hostage release framework.

With the families of the hostages anxiously awaiting the return of their loved ones, Sunday’s release offers a glimmer of hope amid the ongoing conflict. Yet, it is clear that the road to full peace remains fraught with challenges, as negotiations continue and efforts to bring all hostages home intensify.

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