Families of Israelis held hostage in Gaza have expressed their hopes that US President Donald Trump's plan for ending the war will lead to the return of their loved ones. Vicky Cohen, whose son Nimrod is among the 20 hostages believed to be alive, expressed a blend of hope and anxiety, stating that she awoke with a sense of expectation but also fear that things might go wrong. Nimrod was taken hostage during the October 7, 2023 attacks, which resulted in the kidnapping of 251 individuals.
On Friday, Hamas indicated it was willing to release all Israeli hostages, living and deceased, but sought further negotiations concerning various aspects of the US peace initiative. President Trump voiced optimism on Truth Social, urging Israel to halt bombings in Gaza to facilitate the hostages' safe release. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced preparations to execute the first phase of the peace plan for the hostages' immediate release.
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas are set to recommence in Egypt shortly. Udi Goren’s thoughts reflect a sense of cautious optimism, as he believes Trump's involvement has gathered support from both Arab nations and the Israeli government. Eitan Horn's family shared their belief that, after many painful months, the potential for all 47 hostages to return home was nearing a realistic outcome, albeit tempered by fear for their safety.
Gil Dickman underscored the importance of seizing the current opportunity for peace, recalling a prior missed ceasefire chance following the loss of his cousin. He emphasized the significance of Hamas's willingness to engage with the peace plan, terming this moment a crucial phase in efforts to end the conflict.
On Friday, Hamas indicated it was willing to release all Israeli hostages, living and deceased, but sought further negotiations concerning various aspects of the US peace initiative. President Trump voiced optimism on Truth Social, urging Israel to halt bombings in Gaza to facilitate the hostages' safe release. In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced preparations to execute the first phase of the peace plan for the hostages' immediate release.
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas are set to recommence in Egypt shortly. Udi Goren’s thoughts reflect a sense of cautious optimism, as he believes Trump's involvement has gathered support from both Arab nations and the Israeli government. Eitan Horn's family shared their belief that, after many painful months, the potential for all 47 hostages to return home was nearing a realistic outcome, albeit tempered by fear for their safety.
Gil Dickman underscored the importance of seizing the current opportunity for peace, recalling a prior missed ceasefire chance following the loss of his cousin. He emphasized the significance of Hamas's willingness to engage with the peace plan, terming this moment a crucial phase in efforts to end the conflict.
