First Hostages Return to Israel After 471 Days in Hamas Captivity

The release of Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) on Sunday, after 471 days in Hamas captivity, was a moment of bittersweet joy. Their resilience was evident as they walked unaided from Red Cross vehicles to IDF officials, signifying the initial stage of Israel’s ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement with Hamas.

Mandy Damari, Emily Damari’s mother, expressed gratitude for the global support that helped secure her daughter’s release, while acknowledging the ongoing plight of other families still awaiting the return of their loved ones. She stressed the need for the release of all remaining hostages and the provision of humanitarian aid.

Romi Gonen’s father, Eitan, offered a Jewish blessing of thanks, while her grandmother, Debora, expressed both relief and sorrow, emphasizing the need to bring home all hostages.

Ashley Waxman Bakshi, cousin of still-captive soldier Agam Berger, reflected the mixed emotions of the day, describing a blend of relief and determination to continue advocating for the release of all hostages.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, updated by IDF Coordinator Brigadier General (Res.) Gal Hirsch, described the release as deeply emotional and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to securing the return of all hostages.

President Isaac Herzog welcomed the three women, expressing national joy while also acknowledging the ongoing pain of families awaiting news and reiterating Israel’s commitment to bringing home all hostages.

The hostage release is part of a multi-phase agreement involving the release of 90 Palestinian prisoners, some convicted of murder, prompting security concerns acknowledged by Defense Minister Israel Katz. He emphasized the need for vigilance while pursuing the return of all hostages.

President Joe Biden reaffirmed U.S. support for the deal, acknowledging its complexity and the need for its complete fulfillment across administrations.

Concerns remain regarding the deal’s long-term implications and the potential for renewed violence following the release of convicted terrorists. The agreement’s multi-phase nature raises questions and fuels anxiety.

The first five-week phase involves staged exchanges, leading to negotiations for a second phase focusing on soldiers, young men, and the return of bodies, with the IDF maintaining a presence in Gaza to oversee the process.

For the families of the remaining 98 hostages, Sunday’s events offered a glimmer of hope amidst their continued pain, representing a beginning rather than an end to their journey.

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