After 498 grueling days in Hamas captivity, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Iair Horn, and Alexander “Sasha” Troufanov are finally home. The three men, abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 attacks, were released as part of a tense ceasefire deal, which included the exchange of over 300 Palestinian prisoners. Their return has stirred a wave of relief and reflection across Israel.
The hostages were transferred to the Red Cross and transported to Israeli territory following a staged handover by Hamas in Khan Younis. At the event, they were paraded before the cameras in a propaganda spectacle, their faces pale and drawn but defiant. Despite enduring physical hardship and psychological torment, Red Cross medical teams found their spirits remarkably strong.
The reunions with their families were raw and heart-wrenching. Sagui’s father, Chen Dekel, who had become a public advocate for the hostages’ release, held his son tightly and said, “We never gave up hope. You are finally home.” Iair Horn’s wife, Tamar, who spearheaded a public campaign for his return, sobbed as their youngest child whispered, “Abba, you’re home.” Sasha Troufanov’s elderly mother, who lit candles for his safe return every Friday night, wept as she touched his face, simply whispering, “Thank G-d you’re here.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, addressing the nation, welcomed their return while stressing the gravity of the ongoing crisis. “We celebrate their freedom, but we are not done. More than 100 of our people remain in the hands of Hamas. Our mission continues.” His words echoed through rallies in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, where thousands gathered, demanding continued action to bring every hostage home.
The ceasefire deal, while securing the release of dozens of hostages, remains fraught with tension. Hamas has accused Israel of violating ceasefire terms, while Israel has insisted on continued military pressure until every captive is returned. Despite political divisions, the Israeli public has united in support of the hostage families.
The families of Sagui, Iair, and Sasha, now pillars of a broader movement, vowed to continue their advocacy. Sagui’s sister, Michal, stated, “Our family has suffered, but we will use our voice to fight for those still in Gaza.” Tamar Horn, embracing Iair, said, “This is not over. No family should endure what we did.” Sasha Troufanov, his voice firm despite exhaustion, added, “I came home, but my heart is with those who are still there. We will not rest until they are free.”
Their story, filled with pain, resilience, and hope, is a reminder that behind every headline is a human struggle. As Israel watches and waits, the fight to bring every hostage home presses on.
