Statement on the return of Israel’s living hostages

from the Jewish Federation of Lane County

Relief. Hope. Fear. Elation. Trepidation. Exhaustion. 

Today, we release a breath we’ve been holding for two long years – all of Israel’s 20 living hostages are home. With relief, we’ve watched these 20 humans be embraced by their families and friends, knowing their nightmare of captivity is over. With concern, we acknowledge that their recovery from this trauma will be long and difficult.

All we’ve wanted this whole time is our people back home. And now they are. 

The bodies of four hostages also came home today, but we wait for Hamas to fulfill their end of the deal and release the other 24 bodies. May their memories be a blessing, these 28 beautiful souls murdered by Hamas on October 7 or in captivity.

The agreement, signed in Egypt today, also includes the promise to end this war, humanitarian aid for Gazan civilians, the full disarmament of Hamas, demilitarization of Gaza, and the establishment of a temporary Palestinian government.

This moment carries possibility. New governments may emerge. And yet, history tempers hope. Will this time be different?

It is our choice to embrace hope, something that has felt impossible for the past two years – for the civilians in Gaza, for the families of the hostages who have waited in anguish, and for the possibility of a lasting peace. As a Jewish community that lives far from the war, we hope this peace may serve as an antidote for the growing waves of antisemitism in the West and our own deep communal divides.

May we celebrate the hostages’ return. May we breathe. May we remember our duty to repair the world. 

We look forward with determination and hope.

About Jewish Federation of Lane County

The Jewish Federation of Lane County (JFLC) is one of 146 independent federations and a network of 300 smaller communities across North America. JFLC’s mission is to support caring, safe, inclusive and enduring Jewish communities here in Lane County. Priorities include caring for Jews in need, ensuring the Jewish future, and engaging and organizing community. Local work includes a social services program, a Community Relations Council, Mitzvah Day, and scholarships for local youth seeking to further their Jewish education. More information is available at www.jewishfedlc.org.