Celebration in Tel Aviv as Hostages Hopeful for Return
TEL AVIV: After two years of uncertainty and heartache, a wave of joy swept over Tel Aviv on Thursday. Crowds gathered at Hostages Square to celebrate a new peace agreement announced by former President Donald Trump, aimed at ending the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
“I can’t express how happy I am,” Daniel Lifshitz shared with enthusiasm at the gathering. Lifshitz’s grandfather was taken from Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023, and tragically lost his life in captivity. The family finally buried him in February 2025, but now they hold onto hope for the other hostages.
The recent peace deal includes a 72-hour countdown for Hamas to release 48 hostages currently held in Gaza. “This is a day to celebrate,” Lifshitz added, though he expressed concern that not every hostage would come home alive.
Trump’s announcement signaled a hopeful step forward, stating, “This means that all of the hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw its troops as part of a path toward lasting peace.”
A Joyful Gathering
Thousands of Israelis, many sporting Trump masks and waving American flags, filled the square. They snapped selfies and cheered together, echoing phrases like “The people of Israel live.” The mood was optimistic as they awaited the return of their loved ones who had been taken 733 days ago.
Galit Even-Chen was among those present, moved to tears. “I just want to share in the happiness of these families,” she said. “Even though we are still dealing with trauma, today gives us hope for something better.”
The Hostage and Missing Families Forum expressed heartfelt thanks to Trump and his administration for their persistence in achieving this “historic breakthrough.” They emphasized that their mission to bring all hostages home remains urgent and vital for healing.
A New Beginning
Harrosh Menashe, whose nephew Elkana Bohbot is still unaccounted for, noted that the announcement brought a sense of relief. “We feel a bit lighter. Our hope is to return to normal, but we must stay grounded as we navigate this new reality.”
The Israeli military has begun preparations to reunite the 20 living hostages with their families at a nearby base. Medical teams stand ready to assist the freed captives, ensuring they are well cared for before returning home.
In the days leading up to this moment, families of hostages even reached out to the Nobel Committee to recommend Trump for the Peace Prize, citing his groundbreaking efforts. “No other leader has contributed as much to peace as President Trump,” they wrote.
Trump and First Lady Melania also conveyed their appreciation in a letter sent to the families, acknowledging their resilience and advocacy over the challenging two years.
As the future inches closer to hope, Israelis in Hostages Square came together, not only to celebrate but to remember the journey that brought them to this significant moment.
