Families of Recently Released Gaza Hostages Share Details of Captivity and Reunite with Loved Ones

Families of recently released hostages from Gaza are beginning to share details of their captivity. Over the past three days, 58 hostages have been freed as part of a temporary cease-fire agreement. Most of the hostages are still in hospitals, but some of the first questions they are being asked are about their experiences.

Sharon Hertzman and her daughter Noam, 12, were released by Hamas after 50 days in captivity. Hila Rotem Shoshani, 12, was released without her mother, Raaya, who remains in Hamas custody.

Hertzman and Shoshani both reported having access to toilets and food, though not always enough. They also reported long waits for the bathroom. Hertzman and Shoshani were kidnapped from the kibbutz in Be’eri on October 7.

The hostages are now adjusting to life back in Israel after seven weeks of captivity. Family members of the hostages have expressed relief and joy at their return. A photo of Hertzman reuniting with a relative at Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan, Israel, has been released.

The release of the hostages is a sign of hope for the region, and a reminder of the resilience of those affected. The families of the hostages are now looking forward to a future of peace and stability.