News of an agreement between Israel and Hamas to release hostages after over a year of conflict in Gaza brings mixed emotions for Ruth Strom. While one of her sons is set to be freed, the other will remain in captivity for the time being, the Times of Israel reports.

“It is not easy for a mother to hear this,” Strom told Reuters, dressed in a red t-shirt adorned with pictures of her two sons and the words: “Bring Iair and Eitan home.”

Although she has no specific information about their condition or location within the devastated Gaza Strip, Strom is convinced the brothers have stayed together throughout their ordeal.

“But what will happen at the moment when they will be separated and told that one is coming out and one is not?” she asked, her voice trembling with emotion. “I know that their strength is to be together, to be there for each other.”

Eitan, 38, was visiting his older brother Iair, 46, at his residence in Kibbutz Nir Oz near the Gaza border when Hamas launched a large-scale attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The assault resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of 251 hostages, igniting the current conflict.

Out of the remaining 98 hostages still in Hamas custody, some are feared dead. The terms of Wednesday’s ceasefire specify the release of 33 hostages over the next six weeks. These include women, children, men over the age of 50, and those who are ill or injured. Negotiations for the remaining 65 captives are expected to follow.

Among those set to be freed in the first phase, some may have already passed away, though Israel lacks specific details about the deceased. Iair’s inclusion in the initial group to be released raises concerns about his health, although no definitive updates have emerged.

Since her sons were taken, Ruth has relied on sporadic fragments of news to maintain hope. The most recent confirmation of their survival came during a brief ceasefire in November 2023, when released captives mentioned encountering the brothers.

“They said that they were not injured,” she shared. “At first, they were held in an apartment but were later moved to the tunnels.”

Strom often speaks aloud to her sons, maintaining a connection despite their absence.

“I ask them to wait just a little longer, it will happen and you will be back with us. I ask for their forgiveness, for all the time that has passed in which they are not back here.”

Originally from Argentina, the family immigrated to Israel, seeking to establish themselves in Jewish communities. Eitan, recognizable by his full beard, resides with his mother in Kfar Saba, while Iair embraced the communal lifestyle of a kibbutz.

“I have been optimistic from the first day, despite the ups and downs,” Ruth said.

Devoted to advocating for the hostages’ return, she has taken on an active role in spreading awareness. Posters featuring the faces of the captives can be found throughout Israel—on bus stops, affixed to trees, and wrapped around streetlights.

“It’s true that I cry and that I am angry, but I feel that there is no point in falling, staying in bed and not wanting to see anybody, or talk, or do anything,” she explained.

“I want all 98 hostages to be brought home,” Ruth stated, making a heartfelt appeal to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “I ask you, Bibi, do everything. The people are with you. You have the support to make this happen.”

While Ruth focuses on Iair’s anticipated release, she allows herself to dream of the day both sons are finally safe by her side. “I picture us together in the hospital, that I’ll be able to give them everything they need,” she said. “I’m waiting for that embrace.”

{Matzav.com Israel}