Four Hostages Repatriated to Israel Amid Ongoing Ceasefire Agreement with Hamas – One America News Network
OAN Staff Abril Elfi
10:17 AM – Saturday, January 25, 2025
Four Israeli hostages have been liberated and are now back with their families after enduring 15 months of captivity.
Advertisement
On Saturday, Daniella Gilboa, Liri Albag, Naama Levy, and Karina Ariev were handed over to the Red Cross. Following this, they were taken by the Israeli military and returned to Israel, where they were joyfully reunited with their families.
The freed hostages were flown to the hospital in a military helicopter from a site in southern Israel, where hundreds had gathered to greet them. They were hidden from view as they disembarked the chopper and boarded a large minibus for medical assessments, greeted by cheers and chants.
At just 19 years old, Ariev was taken while serving as a military lookout at the Nahal Oz military base, observing activities in the Gaza Strip. Her family expressed that their “hearts are filled with immense gratitude and joy.”
“After 477 arduous days filled with pain, worry, and relentless anxiety – we finally embraced our cherished Karina, heard her voice, and saw her smile that once again brings us light,” the family commented in a statement.
Gilboa’s family remarked that she has “survived 477 days in the turmoil of Gaza and has finally returned to our family’s embrace.”
“How we’ve prayed for this moment!” they expressed.
The family of Levy, who celebrated her 20th birthday while in captivity, shared their joy at seeing Naama strong and returning to them.
Albag’s family released a statement conveying that “a surge of relief and joy surrounds us after 477 long, unbearable days of anxiety-filled waiting” and thanked everyone who prayed for her return.
“We want to sincerely thank all who stood with us, supported us, prayed, and sent love during these trying times. Your support was our guiding light,” the statement read.
In a display of celebration for the captives’ rescue, many attendees danced, played music, and waved Israeli flags.
Ira, a 28-year-old American who has lived in Israel for eight years, was among those celebrating the release.
“As you can see, everyone here is extremely thrilled to have them back on Israeli soil,” Ira told CNN. “They’ve had a tough journey.”
Ira further expressed hope that President Donald Trump could “bring the remaining hostages back quickly.”
“We sincerely hope he can achieve even greater results than Biden did during his presidency,” he added.
The remaining hostages are expected to be released in small groups each Sunday as the ceasefire progresses.
Nearly 100 hostages are still held captive in Gaza, and there is uncertainty regarding how many are alive.
Stay updated! Get the latest breaking news alerts delivered directly to your inbox for free. Subscribe here. https://www.oann.com/alerts
Advertisements below