By Michael V. Cusenza
Twenty living Israeli hostages were released this week by Hamas under a tenuous ceasefire deal brokered, in part, by President Donald Trump. Israel also released 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
New York elected officials publically reacted to the developments.
“For over two years, 20 hostages held in the tunnels deep underground in Gaza have been waiting to take a breath of fresh air,” U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) said in a statement.
“With the announcement that Israel and Hamas have agreed to phase one of a peace agreement, millions around the world are hopeful they will be able to breathe a sigh of relief alongside them as they are released from captivity, rejoin their families, and begin the long journey toward rehabilitation.
The families of the 28 hostages who are no longer with us—including American citizens Omer Neutra and Itay Chen, and Hadar Goldin, whose body has been held since 2014 and whose parents are my constituents—will hopefully finally be able to put their loved ones to rest.
“Over two million Palestinians will hopefully be able to start emerging from a humanitarian crisis and rebuilding their lives.
Photo Courtesy of the White House
President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu
“I welcome this deal and join the world in praying for its success, the release of the hostages, an end to the war, a surge in humanitarian aid, and a chance to start building peace in Gaza, and across the Middle East. While there is much more work ahead of us, I am grateful for the hard-fought negotiations between the Trump Administration, Israel, and partners across the Middle East. We must do everything in our power to end this tragic and painful chapter and secure lasting peace.”
Mayor Eric Adams added, “Our hearts are filled with joy as an end to the war in Gaza appears to be on the horizon and families have finally been united. All living Israeli hostages have returned home after Hamas kidnapped them from their communities more than two years ago. Since the October 7th terrorist attacks, I have met with families whose children were ripped from their homes, mourned the innocent lives lost, and seen how this unspeakable pain impacted our city. We pray that this news will bring lasting peace, justice, and prosperity to Israelis and Palestinians alike.”
