The prime minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahuhighlighted the release of the three hostages who returned to their country this Sunday after having been kidnapped by the group for 15 months Hamas in Gaza and assured that the young women “went through hell”: “They are coming out of the darkness towards the light, from slavery towards freedom,” he highlighted.
During a phone call with Gal Hirsch, who is responsible for the hostage issue in his office, he added that “it is a tremendously emotional day” for the return of “the first hostages we are bringing home this round. The entire country embraces them. Welcome home.”
In that sense, the president highlighted the “sacrifice and bravery” of the Israeli fighters in Gaza, during more than a year of war. “It’s a huge moment. An emotional moment. A great day.”
Earlier, the Israeli government had ratified that after the agreement reached with Hamas they would ensure the return of “all hostages and missing persons.”
Regarding the three women who were released this Sunday, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, IDF spokesman, reported that they are already under Israeli protection and have begun the process of returning to their homes.
“Emily, Doron and Romi are now in good hands. A few minutes ago, they were reunited with IDF and ISA forces. Now they are with us and on their way home,” Hagari said in an official statement.
In the same text, the official asked for respect for the families, remarking that it is “essential” to allow “the privacy they need during their reunion and that these are “deeply emotional and at the same time painful moments for what they endured during their prolonged kidnapping.”
“We are aware of the enormous public expectation regarding the return and condition of the kidnapped women. At the same time, we must all act with great responsibility. These are difficult days and putting additional burdens on the families and the hostages themselves is irresponsible. We ask that you only trust official sources for updates and refrain from spreading rumors, especially on social media,” he added.
The first three hostages held by Hamas were released after the ceasefire in Gaza
The first hostages to be released after the agreement between Hamas and Israel were Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damariwho had been captured during the attacks of the October 7, 2023.
After being handed over to the Israeli authorities, the released women were transferred to an initial reception center for the IDFwhere they will receive medical attention and be reunited with their families. Later, they will be taken to a hospital for more exhaustive monitoring.
Source: Ambito
