The Israeli military has previously said it is in the midst of a “thorough investigation into the events of 7 October, including those in Nahal Oz, and the circumstances preceding”.

One woman from the unit, Agam Berger, remains in Gaza. In a statement on Saturday, her family said they were “overjoyed and moved” by the return of the four others, while they continued to “eagerly await embracing Agam, God willing, in the coming week”.

Another woman who served in the unit with them, but was not on shift on 7 October, told the BBC: “I have been very emotional… This feels like sisters coming home.”

“God willing, we will all sit together and talk, but of course no pressure. They have to heal first.”

For families of the observers who were killed on 7 October, it was a bittersweet moment.

“This is a very emotional day for us,” said Elad Levy, whose niece Roni served alongside the four women but was killed in the attacks.

“We are very happy to see Karina, Daniella, Liri and Naama coming back home to their families. At the same time, we remember that there are hostages still in Gaza. And for us, we remember Roni who will never come back home.”

Israel had expected female civilian hostage Arbel Yehud to be included in Saturday’s release, and accused Hamas of breaching the terms of the ceasefire to prioritise female civilians. Hamas said Ms Yehud would be released next weekend.

Another female civilian who is yet to be released is Shiri Bibas, who was taken hostage with her husband and two young children, Ariel and Kfir.