Bittersweet rejoicing as first hostages return to Israel after 471 days in captivity

In a live broadcast, Romi Gonen's father, Eitan, recited the Jewish blessing "Shehecheyanu," expressing gratitude for his daughter's safe return. Meanwhile, her grandmother, Debora, voiced both relief and anguish: "I've waited for this day, this is the reason I live for, to see my granddaughter come home. But my heart is with the families still waiting. We must bring them all home."

Ashley Waxman Bakshi, the cousin of Agam Berger-a young soldier still held captive-captured the mixed emotions of the day. "After enduring hell, we desperately needed a moment to breathe and smile," Bakshi told Fox New Digital during a gathering in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, where thousands came together to witness the first phase of the deal. "But this is only the beginning. We must continue until everyone is home."

Israel's President Isaac Herzog welcomed the three women with a message of hope: "Romi, Emily, and Doron-so beloved and missed-an entire nation rejoices in your return. This is a day of joy and comfort, and the beginning of a challenging journey of recovery and healing together." Herzog also acknowledged the pain of families still waiting for news of their loved ones, pledging that Israel would not rest until all hostages were brought home.

President Joe Biden reiterated his administration's commitment to supporting Israel and ensuring the deal's success, while acknowledging its complexity. "This deal must be seen through to its end. It falls to the next administration to continue this work, but today is a step forward."

The first phase of the agreement is set to last five weeks, with hostages and prisoners exchanged in carefully planned stages. By the 16th day, negotiations will begin for the second phase, focusing on the release of soldiers and young men, as well as the return of bodies. The IDF will maintain a presence in Gaza during this period, moving troops to a new security zone to oversee the deal's implementation.

For the families of the 98 hostages still held by Hamas, Sunday's events brought a glimmer of hope amid the pain. "We rejoice for the families reunited today," Bakshi said. "But this is far from over. It's just the beginning of a long journey to bring everyone home."