Israel’s national airline El Al celebrated the release of the three hostages by broadcasting news on all flights. (El Al state)
Israel’s national airline El Al 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 Damali were released by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) after spending 471 days as prisoners of war in Gaza, marking the first step in a historic ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement between Israel and Hamas. It became.
“We are pleased to share the latest information that Romi, Delon and Emily have returned to Israel after more than 470 days in Hamas captivity in the Gaza Strip. El Al and the people of Israel continue to share our promises and hopes. We remain steadfast in our efforts to reunite with all of our loved ones,” air traffic control officials said in a video clip of the announcement posted on the airline’s social media pages.
Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners as part of hostage release as part of ceasefire agreement
The announcement was broadcast to all flights worldwide, including in the air and on the ground.
When the announcement was made, passengers could be heard cheering on the plane.
“This moment fills us with hope and deep gratitude. We celebrate their return and continue to wish with all our heart the safe return of all Israeli hostages as soon as possible,” the airline said. I wrote it on X with a clip.
The release of the hostages is part of a deal brokered by the United States, Qatar and Egypt, under which Israel will release 90 Palestinian prisoners convicted of murder.
First hostage returned to Israel after 471 days in captivity
Critics are concerned about the potential security risks of releasing those involved in terrorist attacks that claimed Israeli lives. Defense Minister Israel Katz acknowledged these concerns, saying, “This is a moment of hope, but we must remain vigilant. We will not rest until all hostages are returned, alive or buried.” ” he said.
While recognizing the complexities of the agreement, former President Biden reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting Israel and ensuring its success. “We must see this agreement through. It is up to the next administration to continue this work, but today is progress.”
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The first phase of the agreement is expected to last five weeks, with hostages and prisoners being exchanged in carefully planned stages. Negotiations for the second phase will begin by the 16th, and will focus on the release of soldiers and young men and the return of their bodies. The IDF will maintain a presence in Gaza during this period and will move troops to the new safe zone to monitor implementation of the agreement.
Fox News’ Efrat Lachter contributed to this report.
