Washington D.C. – February 15, 2025 – Hostage Aid Worldwide welcomes the release of American Israeli Sagui Dekel-Chen, Russian Israeli Sasha Troufanov, and Argentine Israeli Iair Horn, as part of the ongoing first phase of the ceasefire agreement, marking another step forward in securing the freedom of hostages. As part of this exchange, 369 Palestinian detainees, including 36 who were charged with life sentences, were also freed.

Sagui Dekel-Chen was last seen on October 7, 2023, defending his home in Kibbutz Nir Oz while protecting his pregnant wife and two young children. Sasha Troufanov was also kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz, along with his mother, Lena, and grandmother, Irena. Lena and Irena were released on November 29, 2023, as part of a hostage swap following direct negotiations between Russia and Hamas. Yair Horn was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz alongside his brother, Eitan, who remains in captivity in Gaza.

“We are glad to witness the reunion of all these families, especially Sagui with his newborn child.  Unfortunately, Yair’s release is bittersweet as his brother Eitan remains in captivity,” said Nizar Zakka, President of Hostage Aid Worldwide. “This is a momentous occasion for all involved, but we must remember that the journey is not complete. Many families still await the safe return of their loved ones.”

Hostage Aid Worldwide remains committed to pressing all those involved for the release of all hostages and will continue its efforts to ensure no family is left without hope.