On the first day of the ceasefire three Israeli hostages were exchanged for the release of 90 Palestinian prisoners. After long separations many prisoners and their families broke down in tears finally reuniting with their loved ones.
During this time families of Israeli hostages expressed gratitude to Donald Trump for facilitating the ceasefire. They urged swift and successful completion of the remaining phases to secure release of other captives.
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In Gaza, the atmosphere shifted between joy and reality. Fireworks, celebrations, and tears filled the night as people marked the release of prisoners. After 470 days of relentless Israeli attacks turning Gaza into rubble, the ceasefire brought a moment of relief to its residents like rain after a drought.
For the released Palestinian prisoners, the reunion was bittersweet. Many described their time in Israeli prisons as living in hell—suffering daily abuse, tear gas attacks, beatings, and a lack of food. Their return home marked with exhaustion but their smiles reflected the joy of freedom.
One prisoner shared their ordeal saying, “I have come back from hell. They tortured us day and night. Tear gas was a constant threat and food was scarce. There was no peace, only fear and despair.”
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Israeli hostages, too, were relieved to return. Facilitated by the Red Cross, three women captives from Gaza were taken back to Israel where they underwent health checks before reuniting with their families. Emotional scenes during these reunions highlighted the pain and resilience on both sides.
Read more: Global Leaders Praise Hamas-Israel Ceasefire: Hope for Peace and Humanitarian Relief in Gaza
As the families of the freed hostages thanked Trump, they called for swift action to complete the ceasefire agreements and bring all remaining captives home.
