On February 22, 2025, Avera Mengistu and Tal Shoham were released from Hamas captivity, marking a significant moment for their families and the Israeli public. After enduring years of captivity, both hostages crossed back over the border to Israel with the assistance of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Shin Bet security service.
The IDF and Shin Bet confirmed the successful handover of the two men, who were abducted during the October 7 massacre. They were received with much anticipation, having been escorted back to Israeli territory where they were immediately directed to meet with their families. Both Mengistu and Shoham participated in their own release ceremony staged by Hamas before being transferred to the Red Cross.
The emotional reunions took place at the initial absorption point set up for them near the Gaza Strip, where family members awaited their return. Tal Shoham’s family expressed their joy, stating: "The Shoham, Korngold, and Haran families are moved to welcome Tal back to us. This is an unforgettable moment where all emotions are rapidly mixing together." They extended gratitude to the Israeli public for their support during the long days of uncertainty and suffering.
Similarly, the family of Avera Mengistu reflected on their long ordeal and the ten years and five months of suffering they endured. A family spokesperson shared, "Our family has endured unimaginable suffering. During this time, there have been continuous efforts to secure his return, with prayers and pleas, some silent, which remained unanswered until today." Their return is seen not just as personal relief but also as part of larger efforts to negotiate the safety and freedom of other hostages held by Hamas.
The stark images of Shoham and Mengistu during the release added to the gravity of the situation. Footage showed them standing on stage surrounded by armed fighters, highlighting the complex dynamics of hostage negotiation amid the Israeli-Hamas conflict. While Shoham appeared pale and underweight, Mengistu seemed relatively stable, showcasing the varying conditions of hostages released after prolonged captivity.
Responses from activists and community leaders following their release echoed the sentiments of Mengistu's family. Shula Mula, an Ethiopian-Israeli activist who campaigned for Mengistu’s freedom, stated: "They [the family] were threatened, knowing if they spoke out, Avera would remain in Gaza. We understood he was left there because the government did not want to get him out. It could have claimed humanitarian reasons but did nothing, unable to draw public attention." This perspective emphasized not only the individual story of Avera but also the broader socio-political issues surrounding the treatment of Ethiopian-Israelis and the government's responsibility toward them.
Another layer of complexity was introduced with announcements of potential future hostage releases. Hamas indicated plans for additional releases including Hisham al-Sayed and others currently held as security prisoners. While the return of Mengistu and Shoham marks the seventh wave of hostages released since negotiations began, the situation remains tense as new hostages are set to be processed.
The initial medical evaluations will occur at the IDF facility, where both men will receive attention, followed by possible transfer to hospitals for any required medical treatment. Physical and mental health assessments are to be conducted as part of the protocols for returning captives.
Hamas has been utilizing these hostage releases both as gestures of negotiation and for propaganda purposes, often staging events to showcase their control over such situations. The former public displays have sparked debates on the ethics and implications of such acknowledgment of terrorist organizations.
The families’ call for privacy and opportunity for rehabilitation speaks to the challenges these individuals will face as they reintegrate after their harrowing experiences. The Shoham family concluded their statement on the release by asking, "At this moment of fragility, we hope to seize this window of opportunity to secure the release of all remaining hostages." Their sentiments resonate deeply with the nation, which has watched and waited anxiously for the safe return of its citizens.
This event acts as both closure for some and a reminder of the unresolved issues surrounding hostages and the deep-seated conflict between Israel and Hamas. It raises questions about the negotiations necessary for future hostages and the official stance of the Israeli government on handling such life-and-death situations.
Indeed, as Mengistu and Shoham return to the embrace of their families, the road to healing may be long, filled with adjustments to their new reality and the shadows of their past captivity. Yet for tonight, their homecoming is celebrated as yet another significant step forward for families torn apart by conflict.