Former hostages of Hamas have celebrated news that the group and Israel have agreed to an initial plan to pause fighting in Gaza. The agreement includes provisions to release remaining hostages and prisoners held by both sides.
US President Donald Trump announced the breakthrough late on Wednesday on his Truth Social platform. Trump wrote: "This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace. All Parties will be treated fairly!"
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded on social media, saying: "With God's help we will bring them all home." Hamas separately confirmed the deal would ensure withdrawal of Israeli troops and allow aid to enter Gaza.
Emotional celebrations
Emily Damari, a British-Israeli former hostage, posted a video on Instagram celebrating with friends including fellow former hostage Romi Gonen. The group could be seen hugging and dancing whilst toasting "L'chaim", meaning "to life".
Eli Sharabi, a freed hostage whose wife and two daughters were killed during Hamas's attack on 7th October 2023, expressed his joy on social media. He wrote: "Great joy, can't wait to see everyone home."
International response
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged all parties to honour the agreement's terms and said the UN would support its "full implementation". He welcomed the announcement, writing: "I welcome the announcement of an agreement to secure a ceasefire & hostage release in Gaza, based on the proposal put forward by @POTUS."
Guterres commended diplomatic efforts by the United States, Qatar, Egypt and Turkey in brokering what he called a "desperately needed breakthrough". He emphasised that all hostages must be released in a dignified manner and called for permanent ceasefire.
The UN chief stressed the need for immediate humanitarian access to Gaza and urged stakeholders to establish a political path towards a two-state solution. He said this would enable Israelis and Palestinians to "live in peace & security".
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
