Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, has expressed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for facilitating the safe return of Israeli hostages from Gaza and advancing peace in the Middle East.

Mr Freeman made this known in a statement issued on Monday by the Embassy of Israel in Abuja.

The envoy commended Mr Trump’s friendship with Israel and his courage in standing with Israel, saying such will never be forgotten.

He said: “Today, we welcome home the 20 living hostages who have endured the unendurable. We give thanks for their survival and we pray for their healing”.

He expressed sympathy for those who did not make it home, saying, “We renew our commitment to bring back the bodies of the 28 remaining hostages who were murdered by Hamas.”

Mr Freeman further said: “Israel did not seek this war. It was forced upon us by terror, hatred and darkness, but after 738 days, we also see light, the light of freedom, truth and hope.

“The release of the hostages will bring the end of the war. The end of this war must bring an end to Hamas’s reign of terror and open the door to a future of security, dignity, and coexistence for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to President Trump, whose steadfast leadership, moral clarity, and tireless diplomacy played an instrumental role in bringing our hostages home and in advancing peace in the Middle East.

Mr Freeman stressed that Mr Trump’s friendship with Israel and his courage in standing with the Israeli people will never be forgotten.

“The Embassy joins the Israeli people, the global Jewish community and all people of goodwill in celebrating the release of 20 Israeli hostages who returned home after 738 days in captivity under Hamas.

“This long-awaited moment is one of profound relief, national unity, and moral victory. It reminds the world of Israel’s enduring commitment to the sanctity of life and to the defence of its citizens against terror and tyranny.

“Today, Israel celebrates the return of its people and looks forward to the dawn of peace and stability in the region,” he added.

(NAN)