Doron Steinbrecher reunited with her mother Simona (IDF)
As a final insult, the three Israeli hostages released by Hamas terrorists on Sunday were each given a “going away gift” in a brown paper bag. The “gift” included a certificate of release from Hamas, printed in both Hebrew and Arabic. Hamas even gave the former hostages pictures of their time in captivity, as if they had been on an extended vacation.
As if that were not appalling enough, the Hamas terrorists made the women pose for pictures holding up their certificates of release.
Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher were the three women held hostage by Hamas in Gaza since the October 7 2023 terrorist massacre released on Sunday in the first stage of the six week ceasefire that went into effect Sunday morning. In exchange, 90 Hamas terrorists held in Israeli prisons were turned over to the Red Cross in Jerusalem.
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The IDF spokesperson’s office released photos of the women reunited with their families.
Emily Damari with her mother Amanda (IDF)
President of Israel Isaac Herzog released a statement expressing his joy at the release of the hostages.
“Romi, Emily, and Doron – so beloved and missed – an entire nation rejoices at your return,” he said. “We send you and your families a huge embrace. This is a day of joy and comfort, and the beginning of a challenging journey of recovery and healing together.”
“The eyes weep bitterly, and the heart rejoices,” added Herzog. “At this moment, our hearts are with all the anxious and grieving families whose loved ones have not yet returned. We will not rest or be silent until we bring back all our sisters and brothers from the hell of captivity in Gaza – the living to their families, and the fallen and murdered to be laid to rest in dignity.”
Romi Gonen reunited with her mother Amanda (IDF)
After their release, the three women were brought to Sheba Medical Center outside of Tel Aviv where they for medical treatment. While the former hostages appeared happy upon their release, this is known to be a common initial reaction. However, previously released hostages, including those released after only being held for a moth after the October 7 massacre, needed some time to recuperate once their initial excitement subsided. Israeli officials have asked the public and the press to therefor give the women and their families their privacy for the time being.
