Israeli Airlines broadcasts the news of the hostage release on all its flights

On Sunday, the Israeli national airline, El Al, celebrated the release of the three Israeli hostages by broadcasting the news to the entire public. passengers on its flight network.

Rumi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari were released into the IDF after spending 471 days as prisoners in Gaza, marking the first step in Israel’s historic ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement with Hamas.

“I am pleased to tell you that we have just learned of the return of Rumi, Doron and Emily to Israel after more than 470 days in Hamas captivity in Gaza. El Al and the people of Israel remain steadfast in our commitment and hope for peace.” “Reuniting all our loved ones,” a control center representative said in a video of the announcement posted on the airline’s social media page.

Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners as part of a ceasefire agreement to free the hostages

The ad was broadcast on all of its flights around the world, including air and ground.

Passengers can be heard cheering on board flights as the ad airs.

“This moment fills us with hope and deep gratitude. We celebrate their return and continue to uphold our sincere desire for the safe return of all Israeli hostages as soon as possible,” the airline wrote with an X next to the clip.

The release of the hostages comes as part of An agreement brokered by the United States, Qatar, and Egyptwhere Israel will release 90 Palestinian prisoners, some of whom are convicted of murder.

The first hostages return to Israel after 471 days in captivity

Critics fear the potential security risks of releasing individuals involved in terrorist attacks that claimed the lives of Israelis. Defense Minister Israel Katz acknowledged these concerns, saying: “This is a moment of hope, but we must remain vigilant. We will not rest until all the hostages are returned alive or buried.”

former President Biden He reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting Israel and ensuring the success of the deal, while acknowledging its complexities. “This agreement must be followed through to completion. It is up to the next administration to continue this work, but today represents a step forward.”

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The first phase of the agreement is scheduled to last five weeks, with the exchange of hostages and prisoners in carefully planned stages. By the 16th, negotiations will begin for the second phase, focusing on the release of the soldiers and young men, as well as the return of the bodies. The Israeli army will maintain its presence in Gaza during this period, as it will transfer forces to a new security zone to supervise the implementation of the deal.

Fox News’ Efrat Lachter contributed to this report.