Governor Polis: Colorado Welcomes the Long-Awaited Return of the Hostages to their Homes and Families, and Cease-fire that Will Hopefully Build Towards Lasting Peace in the[...]

DENVER - Governor Polis released the following statement welcoming the long-awaited release of the hostages who have been held captive since Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, and an end to the violence in Gaza, moving the region closer to peace after more than two years of horrific violence and suffering.

"This morning brings some good news. After 736 excruciating days and nights, the surviving hostages seized in the October 7th terrorist attack are finally being freed from harsh Hamas captivity and are returning safely home to their families, and a cease-fire in Gaza is finally in place. In addition, several dozen bodies of slain hostages will also be returned, which will hopefully bring some comfort to the families of those who were killed in captivity. Our thoughts are with the hostages who have endured the unimaginable, and their families who have fought tirelessly for the return of their loved ones. While Hamas killed over 1,200 people on October 7th, let us celebrate the safe return of each of the survivors. Every life spared is meaningful and powerful, and as the Jewish saying goes 'Whoever saves a life, saves a universe.'

"The return of the hostages and the end of fighting in Gaza are the first steps towards building a lasting peace for the region which has been torn apart by violence and suffering for far too long. I thank President Trump, Qatar, Egypt, and negotiators from the Israeli and Palestinian communities for making the safe return of the hostages, and the cease-fire, possible. I am encouraged by the beginning of this agreement and hope the release of the hostages sets the stage to rebuild Gaza and establish a peaceful, prosperous, and safe future for Palestinians, Israelis, and the Middle East," said Colorado Governor Jared Polis.

Governor Polis met with the families of Israeli hostages in 2024 and has continued to advocate for the release of the Israeli hostages held in Gaza, and an end to the fighting.

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