Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari had been launched to the Israel Protection Forces (IDF) after spending 471 days as prisoners in Gaza, marking step one in Israel’s historic cease-fire and hostage trade settlement with Hamas.
“I am excited to tell you we have just been updated about the return of Romi, Doron and Emily to Israel after more than 470 days in Hamas captivity in Gaza. El Al and the people of Israel remain steadfast in our commitment and hope for the reunion of all our loved ones,” a management heart consultant mentioned in a video clip of the announcement that was posted to the airline’s social media web page.
ISRAEL RELEASES 90 PALESTINIAN PRISONERS AS PART OF CEASE-FIRE DEAL TO FREE HOSTAGES
The announcement was broadcast to all of its flights world wide, together with these within the air and on the bottom.
Passengers might be heard cheering aboard the flights because the announcement was broadcast.
“This moment fills us with hope and deep gratitude. We celebrate their return and continue to hold onto the heartfelt wish for the safe return of all the Israeli hostages as soon as possible,” the airline wrote on X alongside the clip.
The discharge of the hostages comes as a part of a U.S.-Qatar-Egypt-mediated deal, during which Israel will launch 90 Palestinian prisoners, some convicted of homicide.
FIRST HOSTAGES RETURN TO ISRAEL AFTER 471 DAYS IN CAPTIVITY
Critics worry the potential safety dangers of releasing people concerned in terror assaults that claimed Israeli lives. Protection Minister Israel Katz acknowledged these issues, stating, “This is a moment of hope, but we must remain vigilant. We will not rest until all hostages are returned, alive or for burial.”
Former President Biden reiterated his administration’s dedication to supporting Israel and making certain the deal’s success, whereas acknowledging its complexity. “This deal must be seen through to its end. It falls to the next administration to continue this work, but today is a step forward.”
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The primary part of the settlement is about to final 5 weeks, with hostages and prisoners exchanged in fastidiously deliberate levels. By the sixteenth day, negotiations will start for the second part, specializing in the discharge of troopers and younger males, in addition to the return of our bodies. The IDF will preserve a presence in Gaza throughout this era, shifting troops to a brand new safety zone to supervise the deal’s implementation.
