Four female Israeli soldiers, Karina, Daniella, Liri, and Naama, were released from Gaza on Saturday following a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. Taken hostage on October 7 from the Nahal Oz military base, these women were part of an unarmed unit of observers known as tatzpitaniyot. Their release marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
The women were captured just a kilometer from the Gaza border fence during a Hamas attack. Their role involved analyzing live surveillance footage from cameras along the high-tech border fence. Their return to Israel coincides with the release of two hundred Palestinian prisoners, marking the first phase of a ceasefire aimed at ending the hostilities that began a week ago after prolonged negotiations.
Upon their return, the hostages were escorted to Beilinson Hospital for thorough medical and emotional assessments. Dr. Lena Koren Feldman, the hospital director, confirmed that the women were in "stable condition" and emphasized that they would continue to receive comprehensive evaluations before reuniting with their families.
"This is a very emotional day for us," expressed Elad Levy, capturing the collective sentiment of relief and joy shared by the families.
The homecoming of these soldiers was met with cheers and tears from their families, who had endured an agonizing wait for their loved ones' safe return. The families expressed overwhelming gratitude for the release but remained mindful of the soldiers still in captivity.
"We are very happy to see Karina, Daniella, Liri and Naama coming back home to their families. At the same time, we remember that there are hostages still in Gaza. And for us, we remember Roni who will never come back home," added Elad Levy.
Liri Albag's family expressed profound relief, stating:
"The feeling of relief and happiness envelops us after 477 long and unbearable days of nerve-wracking waiting."
Liri's mother conveyed her emotions with a heartfelt message:
"My beauty. You're a hero. You're home. That's it."
The emotional reunion resonated deeply with those who served alongside the released soldiers. A fellow unit member expressed her joy:
"I have been very emotional… This feels like sisters coming home."
She also emphasized the importance of allowing the soldiers time to heal:
"God willing, we will all sit together and talk, but of course no pressure. They have to heal first."
However, the joy was tempered by the reality that one woman from the unit, Agam Berger, remains in Gaza. Her family continues to wait anxiously for her return.
The Israeli military maintains its stance in the ongoing conflict with Hamas, with this release seen as a crucial step towards peace. In Gaza, the release was viewed as a victory for Hamas, with one individual in the crowd describing it as an "honourable way" for the group to return the hostages.
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