Name: ‘It’s overwhelming’: Israeli reacts to hostages’ release
Uploaded: 2025-01-19T19:08:10.640Z
Duration: 1 min 5 s
Description: CNN’s Bianna Golodryga is in Tel Aviv’s “Hostages Square” as news of the hostages release to the Red Cross in Gaza unfolded. Three Israeli hostages released by Hamas on Sunday are now back in Israel, according to a statement from the Israeli military.

CNN’s Bianna Golodryga is in Tel Aviv’s “Hostages Square” as news of the hostages release to the Red Cross in Gaza unfolded. Three Israeli hostages released by Hamas on Sunday are now back in Israel, according to a statement from the Israeli military.

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Middle East Conflict

CNN’s Bianna Golodryga reported from Tel Aviv's "Hostages Square" as the news broke about the release of three Israeli hostages by Hamas in Gaza. These individuals have since returned to Israel, confirmed by a statement from the Israeli military. The release has been described as "overwhelming" by some in Israel, characterizing a complex mix of emotions among those who have been closely involved with or following the situation.

An individual who has regularly attended "Hostages Square" events shared feelings of both happiness and sadness, describing the year's events as significantly challenging. Israel residents have been told that the path to healing cannot fully begin until all hostages are released. However, the complexity of emotions remains present among those directly involved, particularly regarding the complete resolution of the hostage situation. The release of these hostages is a significant and hopeful milestone, though anticipation and worry remain as uncertainties persist.

Despite progress, many people in Israel are cautious in their optimism. Some express fear that their hopes may not be fulfilled, emphasizing that while the recent development is positive, the emotional journey towards healing continues at a slow pace. This sentiment captures the uncertainty and hope accompanying the release of these hostages and the ongoing situation.



‘It’s overwhelming’: Israeli reacts to hostages’ release

It's overwhelming. It's too much. I've been told for 15 months now that this country cannot heal after October 7th until every hostage comes home. Are you starting to heal now? No. I don't think it will ever heal. It's too much. Are these happy tears? Describe your tears. I'm both happy and sad for this so tough year. Why is it important for you to be here tonight? I'm here every Saturday to hug the families. So now it's like having this moment of good things happen with them. What does their release mean to you in terms of anticipation and hope for the release of the other hostages? I'm not there yet. I'm very slow because I'm afraid it's not going to happen. So I'm just in this moment.

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Middle East Conflict