KFAR AZA, Israel: Two years after he survived Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel, which killed 64 fellow residents of the Kfar Aza kibbutz, Avidor Schwartzman expresses hope that his community can begin to overcome its pain.

"We can start the healing process," Schwartzman told AFP, acknowledging that many will not return.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas commandos breached the barrier separating Gaza and Israel, approximately two kilometers from Kfar Aza.

The assault led to the burning of homes, looting, killings, and the abduction of 18 people into Gaza, resulting in the deaths of two captives and the release of the last two hostages, Gali and Ziv Berman, under a US-brokered deal on Monday.

The Israeli army regained control of the kibbutz over the following days, with 19 soldiers losing their lives.

A memorial ceremony was held in Kfar Aza’s cemetery to honor those who perished, overshadowed by the ongoing sound of helicopters and drones.

Shimon Elkabetz, whose daughter Sivan was among the slain, believes that Monday's return of surviving hostages offers hope.

However, he insists Israel should not leave Gaza until all dead hostages are buried in Israel.

Israeli authorities have accused Hamas of violating the ceasefire agreement terms by failing to hand over remaining bodies.

Reconstruction efforts have commenced, though much of Kfar Aza remains damaged, and only a few residents have returned.

Batia Holin, a long-time resident, struggles with the loss of 64 friends and finding hope for her future, as she grapples with the destruction of her home.

The kibbutz recently opened new housing units to replace destroyed youth quarters.

Schwartzman, now 40 with two children, has returned to live in Kfar Aza, despite his wife losing both parents during the attack.

His optimism lies in the generations-long connection many residents have to their homes and hopes others will follow suit.