The relieved mother of an Israeli hostage expressed joy as she reassured her son that he would soon be liberated from Hamas’ captivity after spending two years in confinement. Matan Zangauker, aged 25, is among the group of 20 Israeli hostages being released under the care of the Red Cross today, following their abduction by Hamas during a cross-border raid on October 7, 2023.
In an emotional video call, Matan’s mother Einav fought back tears of happiness as she conveyed to her son, “You’re coming home – you’re all coming home. There’s no more war!” Einav has been actively advocating for her son’s release for the past two years, urging the government led by Benjamin Netanyahu to secure their freedom. Matan’s partner, Ilana Gritzewsky, was also abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz but was released a month after the incident in November 2023.
The Red Cross has confirmed the reception of seven Israeli hostages following the signing of a significant ceasefire agreement. The former captives will be transferred to the military after being transported in Red Cross vehicles to Israeli-controlled areas in Gaza. They will then be taken to the Rei’im base in southern Israel for medical treatment and reunification with their families after more than 700 days of separation.
US President Donald Trump was anticipated to arrive in Tel Aviv to claim credit for a 20-point peace deal that facilitated the end of the conflict before proceeding to a Middle East summit. In Tel Aviv, car horns blared in celebration as the hostages reached safety, while forensic teams prepared to receive the remains of up to 28 deceased hostages later in the day.
This day might mark the final occasion for Israelis to gather in large numbers at Hostage Square, where the Bring Them Home campaign has tirelessly campaigned for the hostages’ release. Simultaneously, as Israeli hostages were safely repatriated, hundreds of Palestinians were slated for release from prisons to be handed over to Gaza or relocated abroad.
Hamas has declared that 20 surviving Israeli hostages will be exchanged for over 1,900 Palestinian detainees held by Israel, with an additional 25 hostages in Gaza reportedly perishing.