The Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Michael Freeman, has expressed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for facilitating the safe return of Israeli hostages from Gaza and for advancing peace in the Middle East.
Freeman made this known in a statement issued on Monday by the Embassy of Israel in Abuja.
He commended President Trump’s friendship with Israel and his courage in standing firmly with the Israeli people, noting that his support “will never be forgotten.”
“Today, we welcome home the 20 living hostages who have endured the unendurable. We give thanks for their survival and pray for their healing,” Freeman said.
The envoy expressed sympathy for those who did not make it home, adding that Israel remains committed to recovering the bodies of the 28 remaining hostages murdered by Hamas.
“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,” he said.
Freeman stressed that the release of the hostages should signal the end of the war and the beginning of peace and coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians.
“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,” he said.
He further extended Israel’s “deepest gratitude” to President Trump for his “steadfast leadership, moral clarity, and tireless diplomacy,” describing his role as instrumental in bringing the hostages home and promoting peace in the region.
“The Embassy joins the Israeli people, the global Jewish community, and all people of goodwill in celebrating the release of the 20 Israeli hostages who returned home after 738 days in captivity under Hamas,” Freeman added.
He described the moment as one of “profound relief, national unity, and moral victory,” symbolising Israel’s enduring commitment to the sanctity of life and the protection of its citizens from 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 said.
