The Israeli military previously said it was in the midst of a “thorough investigation into the events of October 7, including those in Nahal Oz, and the circumstances leading up to it.”
One woman from the unit, Agam Berger, remains in Gaza. In a statement on Saturday, her family said they were “overjoyed and touched” by the return of the other four, while they continued to “look forward to Agam’s embrace, God willing, next week”.
Another woman, who served in the unit with them but was not on duty on October 7, told the BBC: “I was very emotional… It feels like sisters coming home.”
“God willing, we will all sit together and talk, but of course without pressure. They have to heal first.”
It was a bitter moment for the families of the observers killed on October 7.
“It’s a very emotional day for us,” said Elad Levy, whose niece Ronnie served with the four women but was killed in the attacks.
“We are so excited to see Karina, Danielle, Lira and Naama coming home to their families. At the same time, we remember that there are still hostages in Gaza. And for us, we remember Ronnie, who will never come home. “
Israel expected civilian hostage Arbel Yehud to be included in Saturday’s release and accused Hamas of violating the terms of the ceasefire to prioritize female civilians. Hamas said Ms. Yehud would be released next weekend.
Another female civilian who has yet to be released is Shiri Bibas, who was taken hostage along with her husband and two young children, Ariel and Kfir.
