Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets relatives of hostages held captive in the Gaza Strip, in Washington, D.C., July 9, 2025. (Photo by Avi Ohayon/GPO.)
Trump shared the clip on Truth Social early Thursday, calling it one of the most emotional moments of his life.
By World Israel News Staff
Families of hostages held in Gaza released a moving video thanking U.S. President Donald Trump after he announced that Israel and Hamas had reached a ceasefire deal that would bring their loved ones home.
Trump shared the clip on Truth Social early Thursday, calling it one of the most emotional moments of his life.
“We are the families of hostages,” the group declared in the video. “We came to Washington this week to mark the October 7 attack, when our loved ones were captured by Hamas terrorists. And today, President Trump has done it — our loved ones are coming home. We will not stop fighting until the last of the 48 return to their families. Thank you, President Trump, for your courage.”
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum also welcomed the announcement, saying relatives received the news “with emotion, anticipation, and apprehension,” and urged Israel’s government to convene immediately to approve the agreement.
Across Israel, families and former hostages celebrated. “Matan returns home — for these tears, I prayed,” wrote Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan.
“I can’t breathe,” said Meirav Gilboa Dalal, whose son Guy remains captive. “The moment I see him will be the happiest day of my life.”
Ruby Chen, whose son Itay was killed on October 7 and whose body is still held by Hamas, expressed gratitude to Trump, envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, and the Israeli negotiating team, while pleading for the return of those still missing.
As news of the deal spread, social media filled with tears, prayers, and disbelief.
Some survivors, such as Omer Shem Tov and Elia Cohen, went live on Instagram upon hearing the news, sharing in the moment of collective hope with friends and supporters.
For families who have waited a year in anguish, the hope of seeing their loved ones return — or finally laid to rest — feels closer than ever.
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