The families of three Israeli hostages released Saturday from Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad captivity are experiencing emotional reunions at the Reim reception point near the Gaza border, marking another milestone in ongoing humanitarian exchanges.
Avital Dekel expressed profound gratitude before reuniting with her husband Sagui Dekel Chen: "I thank everyone who assured me Sagui would return. Receiving this news on Valentine's Day couldn't be more meaningful. While one chapter closes, another begins with my beloved."
Video: Iair Horn meets his mother and brother / IDF Spokesperson's Unit
Upon seeing initial images from the Khan Younis handover point, the Dekel Chen family shared their joy: "Our Sagui has returned – as a friend, son, partner, and father. He will soon begin rehabilitation and meet his daughters Gali and Bar, plus his youngest, Shahar, born during his captivity. Though we grieve what he missed, he's here now, unlike many others still held."
Alexandre Sasha Troufanov's mother and grandmother shared their complex emotions about his return: "Seeing him fills us with hope for the rehabilitation ahead. We're grateful for everyone's support throughout this ordeal."
Video: Sagui Dekel Chen meeting with his family / IDF Spokesperson's Unit
The family of Iair Horn stated: "After 498 days, Iair is home and we can begin to breathe again. Having survived Gaza's horrors, he's back with us. Now we must secure the return of Eitan [his brother] for our family to be complete. We express our deepest gratitude to the Israel Defense Forces and security personnel who risk everything, and our hearts go out to the bereaved families – your sacrifices will never be forgotten."
