Pascal Hundt, who was the head of the ICRC sub delegation in Gaza, gave an interview to YNET about the hostage release operations.
“It was an emotional event. The hostages had been held captive for weeks, separated from their families. At the time of their release, there was a glimmer of hope. The hostages felt immense relief when they saw the ICRC and realized they were going home. It is difficult to describe it in words because it was so emotionally charged. We had tears in our eyes.
“It was a moment of humanity and a respite from the fighting, for everyone. We were focused on reassuring the hostages that we intended to return them to their loved ones. Their families were desperately waiting to receive information about them, and at the same time the hostages did not know what had become of their loved ones.”