Sun Feb 16 05:07:09 UTC 2025: ## Hostages Return to Israel in Emotional Reunions After Gaza Ceasefire
**Tel Aviv, Israel –** Three Israeli hostages held captive by Hamas since October 2023 were released Saturday as part of a prisoner exchange following the Gaza ceasefire. The emotional reunions were captured on video and shared by the Israeli government, showcasing tearful embraces and joyous celebrations.
Among those freed was Israeli-American Sagui Dekel-Chen, who learned the name of his newborn daughter, Shahar Mazal (“lucky dawn”), for the first time upon his return. He was reunited with his wife, Avital, at a southern military base after 16 months of separation. The couple’s joyous reunion was a poignant moment amidst the larger exchange.
Also released were Israeli-Russian Sasha Trupanov and Israeli-Argentine Yair Horn. Trupanov was greeted by his girlfriend and mother, and later learned of his father’s death during the October 2023 Hamas attack. Horn, meanwhile, was reunited with his brother and mother before visiting his father in hospital. His brother Eitan remains held captive in Gaza.
The release of the three men followed the release of 369 Palestinian prisoners by Israel. Most were Gaza residents detained during the war, while some had been serving life sentences for attacks against Israelis. The exchange marked the sixth hostage-prisoner swap since the Gaza conflict began.
Dekel-Chen’s family released a statement expressing their relief and joy at his return, emphasizing their commitment to continuing advocacy until all hostages are freed. The family plan to focus on Dekel-Chen’s rehabilitation and his reunions with his daughters, including his youngest, Shahar, whom he had never met.
First Piper 