Ceasefire Sparks Hope for Hostage Release in Israel-Gaza Conflict

TEL AVIV, Israel — A ceasefire agreement that started Friday offers a glimmer of hope for families of hostages in Gaza. The ceasefire is expected to lead to the release of hostages within 72 hours, marking a crucial step to end the two-year conflict sparked by Hamas‘ attack on October 7, 2023.

The violence has resulted in the deaths of around 67,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ongoing conflict has led to the displacement of nearly 90% of the Gaza population, which totals around 2 million. The ministry’s figures, though not officially verified, are considered reliable estimates of wartime casualties.

Currently, 48 hostages, including a soldier’s body from a prior war, are still held by Hamas. Israeli officials confirmed that at least 25 hostages were killed during the October 7 assault or died while captive. However, hope remains for about 20 hostages, whose fate remains uncertain.

As families await news, the past week has seen emotional rallies across Israel, with relatives sharing heart-wrenching stories. Matan Angrest, an Israeli soldier who was kidnapped, has a mother, Anat, who has been outspoken against the government, urging action for his release. At a recent rally, she said, “I hear you whisper, ‘Come for me, Mom,’ and I can’t protect you.”

The Berman twins, abducted during the same attack, have been separated since their disappearance, causing distress for their family. Liran Berman expressed the pain of not being with his brothers during this harrowing time.

Elkana Bohbot was also taken hostage at the Nova music festival, where he was last seen in videos pleading for help. His mother, Ruhama, mentioned how his son has been trying to find his father with binoculars made in kindergarten.

Other hostages like Eitan Horn and Bipin Joshi have had their families take active roles in campaigning for their release, with Horn’s brother even visiting the U.S. to rally for support. Joshi, a Nepali student, remains the only non-Israeli hostage believed to be alive. His sister actively travels to advocate for his freedom.

The ceasefire requires Hamas to return the hostages, dead or alive, to Israel by the early days of next week. Many families remain hopeful that their loved ones will soon be home.