Thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square on Sunday night, their tears of anguish turning into tears of relief as Hamas released all 20 living hostages held in Gaza for more than two years.
The emotional scenes marked one of the most dramatic moments since the conflict erupted in 2023, bringing a rare sense of unity and hope to a nation long gripped by trauma.
The release came as part of a renewed ceasefire agreement brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, following months of tense negotiations. The hostages, including men, women, and two children, were transferred to Red Cross custody before crossing into Israel through the Kerem Shalom border point. All were later taken to hospitals for medical and psychological evaluation.
“This is the day we have been praying for,” said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, addressing the nation. “Our people are home, and Israel will continue working for peace and security for all.”
The crowd in Hostages Square erupted in applause as buses carrying the freed captives arrived at a military base near Tel Aviv. Families waved flags, held up portraits of loved ones, and sang the national anthem, “Hatikvah,” in unison.
Many had camped in the square for months, keeping vigil under the banner “Bring Them Home Now.”
Among those reunited was Maya Cohen, 28, who was kidnapped from her home in Kibbutz Be’eri. “I never gave up hope,” she said tearfully, embracing her parents. “I survived because I knew Israel would not forget me.”
The ceasefire, which went into effect early Sunday, halted months of cross-border fighting that had devastated Gaza and left parts of southern Israel in ruins. In Gaza City, residents cautiously welcomed the calm, venturing out after weeks of bombardment.
Humanitarian aid convoys began entering the enclave, delivering much-needed food and medical supplies.
International leaders praised the breakthrough as a crucial step toward a lasting truce. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called the release “a moment of humanity amid tragedy,” urging both sides to “build on this fragile peace to end cycles of suffering.”
Despite the relief, Israeli officials stressed that tensions remain high. Military sources confirmed that dozens of citizens are still missing, their fate unknown. Meanwhile, Hamas leaders described the release as “a humanitarian gesture” but reiterated their resistance to Israel’s ongoing blockade of Gaza.
For many in Israel, the hostages’ return symbolizes both closure and the beginning of a new chapter. As fireworks lit up Tel Aviv’s skyline, the overwhelming emotion was one of gratitude — tempered by the sobering reminder of how fragile peace remains.
As one banner in Hostages Square read: “They are home — but peace must follow.