In video message, freed hostage Eliya Cohen thanks protesters, urges politicians to forge ahead with deal

Released hostage Eliya Cohen thanks protesters for fighting for his freedom in a video message to demonstrators at Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square.

“We have an opportunity to return everyone. You successfully brought me back, you can bring back everyone. Those who are alive and the dead. There are people there sitting underground and are simply waiting to go home. You don’t know what they are experiencing,” he says.

Cohen urges politicians to compromise, to enter the negotiating room, and not to leave until they successfully bring everyone home.

“There’s no reason in the world to continue dragging this out — not phase one, not phase two, and not phase three. Just get everyone out. Israel is strong enough to do this, and this is the time for our country to get everyone out,” he urges.

Hoping that those still in Gaza can hear him, Cohen says that the people of Israel love them and are not giving up on them.

“To all my brothers still in captivity, I know there’s a small chance you can hear me. I want you to know that the people of Israel love you, that the people of Israel are fighting for you tooth and nail, that the people of Israel are not giving up on you. You don’t know how loved you are here, and how many people love you, and are trying to bring you home. Be strong. I know what they’re telling you. I know what they’re saying to you, but it’s all nonsense. You are coming home,” he says.

“Alon Ohel, Elkana Bohbot, be strong. I love you. I want you to know that we are all united here—the families, the friends. I promise you we are doing everything so that you will return home.”