Three women who were held hostage by Hamas in Gaza for over 470 days are now returning to Israel as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas takes effect. The women were seen exiting a Hamas vehicle on their own, with representatives from the Red Cross present to assist in their return to Israel.
The women, who were abducted by Hamas terrorists during an invasion of southern Israel, include:
- Emily Damari: A British citizen, 27 years old, abducted from Kibbutz Kfar Aza.
- Romi Gonen: 24 years old, taken hostage from the Nova music festival.
- Doron Steinbrecher: Abducted from her home at Kibbutz Kfar Aza.
It was reported that Romi Gonen’s father expressed optimism about his daughter’s safe return. The women’s mothers were called to Reim to be reunited with them.
Israeli authorities are prepared to provide medical and psychological support to the returning hostages. Out of the 98 hostages, 33 are set to be released in the first phase of the ceasefire deal, with more than 250 initially taken on October 7.
Additionally, Israel announced the retrieval of the remains of Oron Shaul, a soldier killed in the 2014 Gaza war and held hostage since then. These actions are part of the terms of the ceasefire agreement.
The ceasefire was slightly delayed due to communication issues within Gaza, but it eventually began. The agreement has faced opposition from some Israelis, particularly regarding the release of Palestinian security prisoners as part of the deal.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under pressure to decide on the continuation of the war after the six-week pause. Both President Trump and President Biden have supported Israel’s right to resume fighting if necessary.
Posters of hostages Emily Damari and Romi Gonen, two of the first hostages Hamas said it would release from Gaza, are displayed at Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square, Jan. 16, 2025. (Noam Galai/Getty Images)