Netanyahu comments on return of three Israeli hostages

On 19 January, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described the day as extremely emotional, noting the homecoming of three women released from Hamas captivity. He emphasised that Romi Gonen, Emily Damari and Doron Steinbrecher were welcomed on home soil by the entire nation.

The release occurred after terrorists handed over the three hostages, aged 31, 28 and 24, to Red Cross representatives on Sunday evening for their return to Israel. These women had been held in captivity for 471 days. This was reported by The Times of Israel.

During a conversation with Gali Hirsch, who is responsible for the return of hostages, Netanyahu noted that they were the first civilians to return home as part of the current exchange operation.

«Мы все знаем, что они прошли через ужасные испытания. Теперь они выходят из тьмы на свет, из рабства к свободе. Этот момент стал возможен благодаря жертвам и мужеству наших героических бойцов. Это действительно великий и эмоциональный день» (We all know that they have gone through terrible trials. Now they are emerging from darkness into light, from slavery to freedom. This moment was made possible by the sacrifices and courage of our heroic fighters. This is truly a great and emotional day), the Israeli leader stated.

Previously, journalists reported that at the moment of the handover, Hamas representatives gave the women "gift packages" containing their photographs taken during captivity, as well as a "certificate".