Nineteen-year-old Liri Albag rushed into her parents' arms, shouts of joy filling the air as they embraced. "My beauty. You're a hero. You're home. That's it," her mother exclaimed, tears of relief mixing with laughter. This touching moment was the first for the family in over 15 months, captured on video by the Israeli military.
Liri was among the first hostages taken during the Hamas assault on October 7, 2023, and she was one of four women soldiers returned to Israel on Saturday as part of a ceasefire deal. In exchange, 200 Palestinian prisoners were released, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conflict.
The family expressed immense relief at her return, stating, "the feeling of happiness envelops us after 477 long and unbearable days of waiting." The atmosphere in Hostages Square, Tel Aviv, was electric as crowds gathered to witness the soldiers’ return through live broadcasts, collectively celebrating their release from captivity.
Released alongside Liri were 20-year-olds Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, and Naama Levy. Cheers erupted as they appeared in Gaza City's Palestine Square, accompanied by masked figures from Hamas's al-Qassam Brigades, participating in a staged handover. "They're amazing! Did you see them stand and smile?" one viewer in Tel Aviv remarked joyfully.
In Gaza, the scene was met with approval as one observer claimed Hamas was returning the hostages in an "honorable way," considering it a victory for the group. After their handover, the women were transported to the Israeli military and subsequently flown to a hospital for evaluation.
Dr. Lena Koren Feldman, director of Beilinson Hospital, confirmed that all were in stable condition and were set to undergo a thorough medical and psychological evaluation. These soldiers were part of an unarmed all-female observation unit, whose role was to monitor surveillance footage along the Gaza border.
Though their reunion brought much-needed joy, the situation remains complex. Agam Berger, a fellow unit member, still remains in Gaza, and her family is eagerly awaiting her return. The emotions drove home the bittersweet reality for families affected by the ongoing violence; while some rejoice in reunions, others mourn loved ones who will never come back.
Meanwhile, voices have arisen regarding missed opportunities for broader exchanges, with Israel revealing expectations for civilian hostages to be included in the release, raising questions about the ceasefire's effectiveness amid ongoing tensions.
In a world where hope and despair are constantly intertwined, these four women’s homecomings serve as a reminder of the personal stories that lie behind the headlines of the ongoing conflict.
