Urges Vigilance in Ensuring Terms of Peace Deal Are Upheld

B’nai B’rith President Robert Spitzer and CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin have issued the following statement:

B’nai B’rith International welcomes with profound relief and emotion the long-awaited return of 20 living hostages kidnapped and held by Hamas for two agonizing years.

A moment of immense joy mixed with deep sorrow

Their freedom is a moment of immense joy mixed with deep sorrow—joy for the hostages for surviving to return home and joy for the families finally reunited. Yet profound sorrow for the trauma endured by those who suffered so greatly in captivity and by the loved ones of those who will never return. We offer our deepest condolences to the families of those hostages killed by Hamas. And we await the return of the 28 remains of those killed by Hamas and held these last two years.

For two long years, these human beings were held in horrific conditions, often with little outcry from the international community. Their courage and endurance are a testament to the human spirit and to the unbreakable resilience of the Jewish people and the State of Israel.

Concerned about Hamas’ commitment to Peace

As we welcome this moment of light after so much darkness, we remain deeply concerned about Hamas’ commitment to abide by the full terms of a peace agreement. History has shown that Hamas’ words too often mask continued violence and deception. The world must not turn away now—it must hold Hamas fully accountable, for the physical and mental condition of the freed hostages and for the two years of war unleashed by Hamas after its barbaric attack against Israel. The international community must ensure that peace is more than just a promise on paper.

Solidarity with Israel

B’nai B’rith stands in solidarity with Israel and the global Jewish community, united in grief and relieved these souls have finally returned homes, even as we await the return of the final 28 who had been held captive.

We also express our gratitude to President Donald Trump and all of the negotiators for getting us to this moment.

We remain committed to working for a future where no family must again endure such pain.