El Al, Israel’s national airline, celebrated the release of the three hostages by broadcasting news on all its flights. (EL AL)
El Al, Israel’s national airline, celebrated the release of three Israeli hostages on Sunday by broadcasting the news to all passengers on its flight network.
Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari have been released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) after spending 471 days as prisoners in Gaza, marking the first step in a historic ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement between Israel and Hamas.
“I am excited to tell you that we have just been notified of the return of Romi, Doron and Emily to Israel after more than 470 days in Hamas captivity in Gaza. El Al and the people of Israel remain steadfast in our commitment and hope that the reunion of all our loved ones will “, said a representative of the control center in a video of the announcement, which was published on the airline’s social media page.
ISRAEL RELEASES 90 PALESTINIAN PRISONERS AS PART OF Ceasefire Agreement to Release Hostages
The announcement was broadcast on all its flights worldwide, including those in the air and on the ground.
Passengers can be heard cheering on flights as the announcement aired.
“This moment fills us with hope and deep gratitude. We celebrate their return and continue to hold on to our sincere wish for the safe return of all Israeli hostages as soon as possible,” the airline wrote on X alongside the clip.
The release of the hostages comes as part of a Agreement brokered by the US-Qatar-Egyptin which Israel will release 90 Palestinian prisoners, some of whom have been convicted of murder.
THE FIRST HOSTAGES RETURN TO ISRAEL AFTER 471 DAYS IN CAPTIVITY
Critics fear the potential security risks of releasing individuals who have been involved in terrorist attacks that have claimed Israeli lives. Defense Minister Israel Katz acknowledged these concerns, stating, “This is a moment of hope, but we must remain vigilant. We will not stop until all hostages are returned, alive or for burial.”
Former President Biden he reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting Israel and ensuring the success of the deal, acknowledging its complexities. “This deal must be implemented to the end. It is up to the next administration to continue this work, but today is a step forward.”
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The first phase of the agreement is expected to last five weeks, with the exchange of hostages and prisoners in carefully planned phases. By the 16th, negotiations will begin for the second phase, focusing on the release of the soldiers and young men, as well as the return of the bodies. The IDF will maintain a presence in Gaza during this period, moving troops into the new security zone to monitor the implementation of the agreement.
Fox News’ Efrat Lachter contributed to this report.
