Israelis celebrated as all 20 living hostages held by Hamas were released. Thousands gathered in Tel Aviv's 'Hostage Square' to welcome them home. People waved Israeli flags and held photos of the captives. Many cried while others laughed with relief.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog wrote on social media, 'We thank God and welcome our loved ones. We wait for everyone - every single one.' The first seven hostages crossed into Israel early Monday through the Red Cross. The remaining thirteen followed hours later.
Israeli military officials said they don't expect to recover remains of 28 hostages who died in captivity. Hamas took 251 people hostage during their October 7, 2023 attack that started the Gaza war. Some hostages had been released earlier.
This release marks a rare moment of celebration in a conflict that has seen little good news. The emotional homecoming cannot erase the tragic reality that many families still await news of their missing loved ones.