Families of Israelis held hostage in Gaza have told the BBC they are hopeful that US President Donald Trump's plan for ending the war will bring their loved ones home.
Vicky Cohen, whose son Nimrod is among 20 hostages held in Gaza who are still believed to be alive, shared a mixed sentiment of hope and fear ahead of the negotiations. She expressed a wish to hug her son again but worries about the fragile situation and the potential for disappointment.
Nimrod was kidnapped by Hamas during the attacks on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the loss of 1,200 lives and left 251 individuals taken hostage. Recently, Hamas indicated a willingness to release all remaining Israeli hostages, leading to heightened expectations among their families.
In response to Hamas’s deliberation related to the US peace proposal, Trump conveyed optimism on social media, urging for a cessation of hostilities to facilitate the hostages' safe return. Concurrently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that preparations to implement the initial phase of Trump's strategy to release hostages were underway, with subsequent negotiations anticipated in Egypt.
Udi Goren, who lost his cousin Tal Haimi in the attacks, remains cautiously optimistic regarding the negotiations. His sentiments reflect a shared sense of urgency among families for a resolution that prioritizes long-term peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
However, as families of hostages express their longing for reunification, they are reminded of the constant dangers their loved ones face, marking this a time of painstaking anticipation mixed with profound fear.
The emotional statements from other families reflect a delicate balance; while hope is reignited, it is overshadowed by the fear of loss and ongoing suffering of those still held captive.
