Global Jewish Communities Celebrate as Final 20 Hostages Regain Freedom

Jewish communities worldwide on Monday rejoiced at the release of the last 20 surviving Israeli hostages held in Gaza, marking the end of a two-year ordeal that began with the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks.

The release came under a U.S.-brokered ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, with U.S. President Donald Trump credited for leading the negotiation effort. In Israel, scenes of jubilation erupted as freed hostages were reunited with families, while thousands gathered in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square waving Israeli flags and yellow ribbons.

Across the diaspora, the moment was met with immense relief. The Board of Deputies of British Jews described it as a time of “profound joy,” while France’s CRIF president, Yonathan Arfi, said it was the end of “an eternity of waiting.” Latin American communities also expressed gratitude, with Colombia’s Jewish Confederation celebrating the return of dual citizen Elkana Bohbot and Argentina’s AMIA offering prayers for those who died in captivity.

World Jewish Congress President Ronald Lauder hailed the day as one the Jewish people “prayed and fought for,” thanking Trump and Middle Eastern mediators for their roles. He, however, noted that 28 hostages had perished and warned that Hamas must not exploit the agreement.

Similar sentiments echoed from the Zionist Federation of Australia and the Conference of European Rabbis, who celebrated the day as one of healing yet urged vigilance for lasting peace.

The release closes a painful chapter for Israel and its diaspora, uniting Jewish communities worldwide in shared relief and remembrance after 738 days of uncertainty and grief.