A day after their return to Israel: The IDF Spokesperson's Office published videos this evening (Monday) of the emotional reunions of Romi Gonen, Emily Demari, and Doron Steinbrecher with their mothers at the reception point in Israel.
Last night, Romi, Emily, and Doron returned to Israel after 471 days. On their way to Israel, the three hostages were transferred from the terrorists' vehicle to a Red Cross vehicle, amidst the rampage of a barbaric and furious Arab mob. Dozens of Gazans shouted joyful cries, climbed onto the vehicle, and hit it, while the hostages, who had been released just a few minutes earlier from captivity, were sitting inside.
Afterwards, it was reported by the IDF and Shin Bet: "The Red Cross stated that the three Israeli hostages have been handed over to them, and they are making their way to IDF and Shin Bet forces in the Gaza Strip."
Later, the IDF spokesperson published documentation of the moment a special unit force met with Romi Gonen, Emily Demari, and Doron Steinbrecher, handed over by the Red Cross.
Yesterday, Meirav Leshem Gonen, the mother of the released captive, Romi Gonen, shared her initial reactions on Facebook, expressing the feelings that arise for them in the happiest moment of their lives.
In the middle of the night, Merav posted: "It will take me, us, a moment to breathe her in and believe in the reality we have created together. I promise to return. There are 97 more loved ones who need this reality to be fulfilled." And this morning she added: "Reflective moment: We are in hours of an alternative reality, disconnected from the outside world, where there is nothing but family. Sorry."
Emily Demari, who returned from captivity, also shared her feelings after her release on her Instagram account and wrote: "Love, love, love, thank you, thank you to my family, to Orali, to the best friends I have in this world. I returned to my beloved life. I managed to see only a glimpse of everything and you filled my heart with excitement, thank you, thank you, thank you. The happiest in the world just to be."
Mandy, Rumi's mother, said: "Yesterday, I finally had the chance to hug Emily, as I have dreamed of for a long time. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all the people who contributed to the struggle to bring Emily home and supported us during this time. As I have mentioned all along, you are all an integral part of Emily's family."
With immense relief, I can share that Emily is now in a much better medical condition than we expected. It was a tremendous joy to see, along with the whole world, a glimpse of Emily's strength, determination, and charisma during her release. In Emily's own words – she is the happiest woman in the world; she got her life back.
The mother added: "However, alongside our great joy, it is important to remember that Hamas still holds 94 more hostages. The ceasefire must continue until the last hostage returns home, to the embrace of their family."
Emily is an example of extraordinary resilience, but her journey is just beginning. As you have seen, Emily lost two fingers on her left hand, and she needs time and space to dedicate herself to rehabilitation alongside her family, friends, and the medical team accompanying her.
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