In the first images of the three hostages Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari being released to the Israeli Defense Forces on Sunday after their long captivity by Hamas, their faces told a story of resilience. After spending 471 days as prisoners, all three women were able to walk unaided from Red Cross vehicles to waiting IDF officials, marking the first step in Israel’s historic cease-fire and hostage exchange agreement with Hamas.

The return of the three women was celebrated across Israel. Mandy Damari, mother of British-Israeli Emily Damari, said in a statement: “After 471 days Emily is finally home. I want to thank everyone who never stopped fighting for Emily throughout this horrendous ordeal, and who never stopped saying her name. In Israel, Britain, the United States, and around the world. Thank you for bringing Emily home. While Emily’s nightmare in Gaza is over, for too many other families the impossible wait continues. Every last hostage must be released, and humanitarian aid must be provided to the hostages who are still waiting to come home.”

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.”

The deal, while sparking hope, also fuels anxiety about its durability and consequences. Critics question whether Hamas will honor the terms of the multi-phase agreement and express fears over the release of dangerous prisoners potentially reigniting violence.

Photos from the IDF’s preparations at the various sites and in the hospitals where the hostages will arrive (IDF)

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.”