The family of released Israeli captive Tal Shoham has hailed “an unforgettable moment” when he was released from the Gaza Strip as part of the ceasefire deal, joining a chorus of other families and supporters calling for the second phase of the ceasefire to be upheld, Al Jazeera reports.

“At this crucial moment in our lives, our only request is to seize this window of opportunity to secure a deal that will bring fathers back to their children — children need their fathers — and return all hostages home: The living for rehabilitation and the deceased for eternal rest,” they said in a statement.

“There is a window of opportunity; we must not miss it,” they added.

The family of Avera Mengistu also celebrated his release after “enduring 10 years and five months of unimaginable suffering”.

“During this time, there have been continuous efforts to secure his return, with prayers and pleas, some silent, that remained unanswered until today.”