‘Blessed are You, Lord, Who Frees the Captives’

Stand for Israel  |  January 19, 2025

Israelis watch the release of three hostages from Hamas captivity as part of a deal between Israel and Hamas, at hostage square in Tel Aviv, January 19, 2025.
Israelis watch the release of three hostages from Hamas captivity as part of a deal between Israel and Hamas, at hostage square in Tel Aviv, January 19, 2025. (Photo: Yonatan Sindel/Flash90)

An Israel-Hamas ceasefire has taken effect, and – praise God! – Emily, Doron, and Romi, the first three Israeli hostages held by Hamas since October 7, 2023, have been turned over to the IDF and are on their way home:

“The government of Israel embraces the three returnees,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said in a statement. “Their families have been informed by the relevant authorities that they have joined our forces.

“The Government of Israel is committed to the return of all hostages and missing persons,” the statement said.

“The government, together with all security agencies, will support them and their families.”

“Blessed are You, Lord, who frees the captives,” the statement concluded.

Israel’s military says it is prepared to receive the hostages at three complexes it has set up near the Gaza border. Please pray for the safe return of ALL the hostages.