Sat Feb 15 13:23:24 UTC 2025: ## Israeli Hostages Released in Gaza Truce: Joy and Sorrow Mix as Families Reunite

**Tel Aviv, Israel – February 15, 2025** – Scenes of jubilation and heartbreak unfolded across Israel today as three Israeli hostages, held captive in Gaza since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, were released as part of a ceasefire agreement. Hundreds gathered in Tel Aviv’s “Hostages Square,” holding signs reading “Sorry! Welcome back” and “Complete the ceasefire,” to watch the release unfold.

Among those freed were Israeli-American Sagui Dekel-Chen (36), Israeli-Russian Sasha Trupanov (29), and Israeli-Argentine Yair Horn (46). Their families, many of whom had relocated since the attack, wept with joy as they witnessed their loved ones’ return, albeit under circumstances that added layers of complexity to the emotional reunion. The hostages were shown addressing a crowd in Gaza alongside Hamas militants before their release.

Dekel-Chen’s wife, Avital, who gave birth to their third daughter two months after her husband’s abduction, described her relief, saying, “My breath has returned. He looks so handsome.” Similar sentiments of overwhelming relief were expressed by other family members.

However, the joy was tempered by the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the remaining hostages. Ronli Nissim of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum described the situation as a “bittersweet” emotional roller coaster, highlighting the continued suffering of those still held captive in Gaza. The family of Sasha Trupanov expressed gratitude for his return but also revealed their heartbreaking news that his father was killed in the October attack, casting a shadow over the reunion.

The Gaza truce, currently in its 42-day first phase, stipulates the release of 33 hostages in exchange for approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. To date, 19 Israeli hostages have been released. However, 70 of the 251 people abducted during the October attack remain in Gaza, with half reportedly dead according to the Israeli military. The release of the hostages marks a significant step in the truce but leaves a lingering sense of both relief and unresolved grief for those still awaiting the return of their loved ones.

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