All Living Hostages Freed from Gaza After Two Years

Historic Release of Hostages

• 🕊️ All 20 living hostages have been handed over to the Israeli Defense Forces, marking the first time in over two years that Hamas holds no living captives.
• 💔 This moment is bittersweet as families celebrate the return of their loved ones while grieving for the 28 deceased hostages whose remains have not yet been returned.
• ⏳ The families of the deceased hostages are awaiting the handover of their loved ones' remains for a proper Jewish burial.

Jubilation and Grief in Hostage Square

• 🎉 Hostage Square erupted in cheers and celebrations as news of the hostages' return spread, with music and dancing filling the air.
• 🇺🇸 U.S. President Donald Trump is credited by many in the crowd for his role in brokering the deal, with posters and expressions of gratitude visible.
• 😔 Despite the jubilation, there are moments of sadness and grief, acknowledging the hostages who will not return alive.

Hostage Condition and Future

• 🏥 The freed hostages have been taken to hospitals for physical and mental health care after enduring profound trauma.
• 🗣️ Some hostages were able to make video calls to their loved ones before being handed over, providing the first glimpses of their condition.
• 😥 The return marks the beginning of a difficult adjustment period for the hostages as they begin to absorb their experiences over the past two years.

The Long Road to Freedom

• 🗓️ The release comes after 738 days of captivity, a period that has been devastating for the families and the nation.
• 🎗️ Many gathered in Hostage Square weekly for two years, demanding the release and return of all hostages.
• 💔 The situation is contrasted with the aftermath of October 7th, where some families were also denied immediate burials for their loved ones.