Watch emotional video: Palestinian born after father was jailed hugs him for first time

About 60 Palestinian prisoners emerged from Israeli detention and into the arms of their families in Ramallah during a moment that was full of raw emotion and long-awaited reunions. Long hours of waiting gave way to celebration as loved ones, many of whom had spent years yearning for this day, finally held their relatives once again. One of the 60 prisoners also include a Palestinian born after father was jailed.

Named Hussain Nassar, 47 years old, who had been imprisoned since 2003 for his participation in the Second Intifada, is set free. For his daughters, Hedaya, 22, and Raghad, 21, the event was more than just a reunion; it was the first time that they would practically be able to live with their dad.

Here is the video of Palestinian born after father was jailed hugging him

In traditional red and black embroidered dresses from their hometown of Nablus, the sisters’ enthusiasm was almost palpable. “This is the first time I will touch him, hug him,” she shared, overwhelmed with emotion. “He was taken before I was born. I feel like I am meeting my father for the first time.”

This was part of a fragile ceasefire agreement, in which 110 Palestinian detainees were released, among them women and minors, some of whom were only 15 years old. Some were detained on lesser charges or had not yet been convicted, while others had been serving sentences for serious offenses. Twenty-one of the released individuals were not allowed to return to the Palestinian territories and were instead exiled to Egypt or other neighboring countries.

Zakaria Zubeidi, for instance, remains in Ramallah even though he was a major leader in the al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades. Made to stand atop the screaming crowds, Zubeidi is a powerful symbol for many. But such scenes are likely to take a toll on Israel, where right-wing voices have already demanded renewed military action in Gaza once the ceasefire period ends.

Dr. Leila Abu Ghanam, governor of Ramallah and El Bireh, acknowledged that the day was bittersweet. While the release brought a day of joy, she said the Israeli military operation was ongoing in the West Bank and reminded the public that the ceasefire was precarious. “Mothers today celebrate the return of their children; they also grieve for those who have lost their homes and loved ones,” she said.

Despite the constant tensions, there was a sense of hope surrounding the moment of reunification: a rare thing in a war that has seen devastation on either side. More prisoner exchanges are scheduled for this Saturday.