Justice Minister Yariv Levin welcomed the signing of the first phase of the hostage release agreement. He said that "in these emotional moments, it is appropriate first to remember the fallen and those wounded in body and spirit, to express great appreciation to our heroic soldiers, security and rescue forces, reservists and the families who supported them. Thanks to all of you, we have reached this moment." Levin added: "Thank you to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who steered the ship in its difficult moments and brought us to this historic moment and thanks to US President Donald Trump. The agreement includes heavy prices, we will continue to work to ensure that Hamas never returns to hold weapons and control the Gaza Strip."