Israel and the Palestinian territories saw an emotional milestone on Monday as long-awaited reunions unfolded on both sides of the conflict. In Israel, the last of the hostages held by Hamas for more than two years returned home, ending 738 days of captivity since the October 7, 2023, attack. Twenty surviving hostages were reunited with families amid tearful celebrations in Tel Aviv and other cities. At the same time, Palestinians cheered as Israel released nearly 2,000 prisoners under the Gaza ceasefire deal, brokered by US President Donald Trump, which involved the exchange of prisoners for Israeli hostages. Crowds gathered in Beitunia in the West Bank and Khan Younis in Gaza, greeting freed prisoners with cheers, V-for-victory signs, and embraces. The dual reunions marked a rare mom
Tears, hugs and kisses: Emotional reunions mark return of Israeli hostages, Palestinian prisoners; crowds gather at both sides of Gaza

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