LONDON, England – After enduring 50 days of captivity, nine-year-old Emily Hand and 12 other hostages have been released by Hamas. The hostages, including siblings Noam and Alma Or, were taken by the terrorist group during an invasion that resulted in the death of their mother. While the children have been freed, their father remains in captivity. Their release was part of a temporary cease-fire agreement brokered by Qatar and the United States between Hamas and Israel.

The hostages, including drama therapist Sharon Avigdori and her daughter Noam, were taken from Kibbutz Be’eri. The group of released hostages also included Maya Regev, 21, and various members of the Shoham and Weiss families. Additionally, Hila Rotem, 13, escaped from her home in Be’eri but was later found and taken to Gaza. Another captive, Emily, was kidnapped during the Hamas invasion and was among at least 30 children believed to still be held in Gaza.

Thomas Hand, Emily’s father, expressed relief and hope at the news of the impending release but also shared his fears of his daughter not being among those set free. The Or family, whose home was destroyed by Hamas during the invasion, lost their mother in the attack. Dror, the father, and Liam, their nephew, were also taken hostage. Maya Regev, who was kidnapped from the Supernova music festival, is believed to be in stable condition after her release. Shoshan Haran, an agricultural expert, was also given back her freedom after being declared missing following the October attacks.

The release of the hostages has brought hope to the families who have endured weeks of uncertainty. The temporary cease-fire agreement has allowed for the return of some of those held captive by Hamas, bringing relief to many. The families are now focused on reuniting with their loved ones and providing the support and care they need after their harrowing ordeal.