Freed Hostage Matan Angrest Visits Hostage Square, Where Tens of Thousands of Israelis Protested for his Return | WATCH

In a poignant moment at Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, recently released Israeli hostage Matan Angrest honored his fellow captives still in Gaza and vowed unwavering commitment to their full return, including dignified burials for those who did not survive, just days after his own liberation from over two years in Hamas captivity.

"I came to the square to pay respect to all the hostages still in Gaza. I am so happy for the hostages who returned home, all alive, healthy and whole, and may they recover with God's help," Angrest stated. "I want to say that we will continue the struggle until the last hostage returns home, for a proper burial in the land, and we will not let go. With God's help, together we will win."

The 22-year-old soldier, abducted during the deadly October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks, was among the final 20 living hostages freed on October 13, 2025, as part of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal that ended the prolonged conflict. He endured abuse and torture at the hands of his Hamas captors, including beatings which left unconscious more than once, and burns from the initial attack on his tank on October 7th.

Angrest's visit to Hostages Square, a symbolic hub for advocacy since the 2023 attacks, marks his first public appearance there post-release, where he also paid tribute to fallen comrades, including his IDF commander Daniel Peretz, at his funeral.

The Hostages Families Forum, credited with sharing the statement, continues to advocate for the remains of deceased hostages still held in Gaza.