Family members of the 13 hostages who were freed by Hamas on Saturday night responded to the release of their relatives.
Inbal Tzach, cousin of Adi Shoham who was released together with her family, said, "Like everyone else we watched our loved ones on their way home. We saw Adi with Nave, Yahal, Shoshan, Noam, and Sharon. Of course we are still waiting for Tal to come home, as well as for everyone else. The struggle has not ended. This is the saddest joy and the happiest sadness, but our family is home. Keep fighting with us. We still have a long way to go. This is an emotional evening for the families who received their loved ones tonight. We will continue the struggle until everyone comes home."
Zohar Avigdori, uncle of Noam Avigdori and sister-in-law of Sharon Avigdori who were released from captivity, "We are very excited, our legs are shaking and we are impatiently waiting to hug our loved ones, Noam and Sharon. We don't forget for a moment that these are the same legs that will continue the journey to sustain us in the long journey that is still ahead of us - until the safe return of all the hostages."
Mirit Regev, mother of 21-year-old Maya Regev, said, "I'm excited and happy that Maya is on her way to us now. Nonetheless, my heart is split because my son, Itay, is still in Hamas's captivity in Gaza. I am going to hug Maya so hard. We will not stop until Itay and all the hostages get back home."
The family of nine-year-old Emily Hand said, "Emily has come back to us!”
“We can't find the words to describe our emotions after 50 challenging and complicated days. We are overjoyed to embrace Emily again, but at the same time, we remember Raya Rotem and all the hostages who have yet to return. We will persist in doing everything in our power to bring them back home,” the family added.
“We want to express our gratitude to everyone who helped and supported us during the last 50 days until Emily's return. We appreciate the unwavering support as we continue our efforts for the safe return of all."