Sen. Jon Ossoff issues statement on release of Israeli hostages

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WRBL) — Hamas released all 20 remaining living hostages on Monday as part of a ceasefire with Israel, pausing two years of war that pummeled the Gaza Strip and left tens of thousands of Palestinians dead.

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff issued a statement following the release of the remaining living hostages and celebrated their freedom.

“Today Georgians and the whole world celebrate the freedom of Israeli hostages from captivity in Gaza. I remain in awe of their families, their refusal to despair, and their advocacy. For those finally able to see and hold their loved ones, like the family of Evyatar David, I am full of joy. To others, whose kin were killed while in captivity, my family and I grieve for your loss.

“Two years since the October 7th massacre, the release of the hostages and this cease-fire present hope for an enduring peace in Gaza. After two years of horror, countless thousands of civilian deaths, and unimaginable destruction, we must make every effort to ensure the peace holds. I commend the efforts of the Trump Administration and international partners to achieve this moment and will vigorously support the hard work ahead necessary to secure peace, security, and freedom for all people in the Middle East.”

Through a deal, Israel released over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and promised to allow a surge of food and aid supplies into famine-stricken Gaza.

It was not immediately clear when the remaining 24 bodies would be sent back to Israel. The families of the deceased captives have demanded that the bodies be returned as part of the current ceasefire deal, according to AP News.