Former hostages celebrate news of initial plan to end Gaza conflict

Eli Sharabi, a freed hostage whose wife and two daughters were killed during Hamas’ attack on October 7 2023, wrote on social media: “Great joy, can’t wait to see everyone home”

Undated handout photo of British Israeli citizen Emily Damari. Picture: Pomi Ofir Tal/PA

Former hostages of Hamas have celebrated the announcement that the group and Israel have agreed to an initial plan to pause fighting in Gaza and release at least some remaining hostages and prisoners.

US President Donald Trump revealed the news late on Wednesday, writing in a post on his Truth Social platform: “This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace.