Israel's national airline El Al celebrated the release of three Israeli hostages on Sunday. passengers on its flight network.

Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher and Emily Damari have been released to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) after 471 days in captivity in Gaza, the first step in Israel's historic ceasefire and hostage exchange deal with Hamas.

“I am happy to inform you that Romi, Doron and Emily have returned to Israel after more than 470 days of captivity by Hamas in Gaza. The reunion of all our loved ones,” a control center representative said in a video clip of the announcement posted on the airline's social media page.

ISRAEL RELEASES 90 PALESTINIAN PRISONERS TO HOSTAGE RELEASE AS PART OF CEASE DEAL

The announcement was broadcast to flights worldwide, including those in the air and on the ground.

As the announcement is broadcast, passengers on flights can be heard cheering.

“This moment fills us with hope and deep gratitude. We celebrate their return and continue our heartfelt wishes for the safe return of all Israeli hostages as soon as possible,” the airline wrote on X next to the clip.

It comes as part of the release of collateral US-Qatar-Egypt brokered dealIsrael will release 90 Palestinian prisoners, some accused of murder.

FIRST HOSTAGES RETURN TO ISRAEL AFTER 471 DAYS OF CAPTIVITY

Critics fear the potential security risks of releasing individuals involved in terrorist attacks that have claimed Israeli lives. Defense Minister Israel Katz acknowledged those concerns, saying, “This is a moment of hope, but we must remain vigilant. We will not rest until all hostages are returned alive or for burial.”

Past President Biden while acknowledging the complexity of his administration, he reiterated his commitment to support Israel and ensure the success of the deal. “This deal needs to be seen through. It's up to the next administration to continue this work, but today is a step forward.”

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The first phase of the deal will last five weeks, with hostages and prisoners exchanged in carefully planned phases. By the 16th day, negotiations on the second stage of the release of soldiers and youths, as well as the return of bodies, will begin. The Israeli army will maintain its presence in Gaza during this period and move troops to the new security zone to monitor the implementation of the agreement.

Fox News' Efrat Lachter contributed to this report.