What it’s about

Relatives of Israeli hostages held in Gaza shared their heartbreaking stories during the Jerusalem Post Annual Conference Gala. The families described the harrowing experiences they’ve endured over the 240 days since their loved ones were taken captive, appealing for more robust intervention for their release.

Why it matters

This event shines a light on the human cost of ongoing hostilities and underscores the urgency to address the plight of Israeli hostages and meet their families’ demands for immediate action. These firsthand accounts bring attention to the daily suffering and long-term impacts on those affected by acts of terrorism.

Hostage Families Share Their Ordeals

During the event, Devorah Idan recounted how terrorists broke into her family’s home in Kibbutz Nahal Oz on what has come to be known as “Black Saturday” in Israel. Her son Tsachi was kidnapped while they watched the tragedy unfold live through social media.

“We live in a perpetual nightmare,” she expressed. “My granddaughter was killed, and my son was kidnapped. He did not get to mourn her.”

Moshe Emilio Lavi, a former IDF captain, criticized authorities, stating, “We were promised that bringing the hostages home was the most pressing goal. Time is of the essence.”

Calls for Accountability and Action

Panelists urged the international community to hold Hamas accountable for the captives’ welfare and called on the Israeli government to honor its commitments. Ronen Neutra talked about his son Omer, a 22-year-old soldier captured during the attack in southern Israel.

“Since then, my wife and I are fighting to bring my son and all the other hostages back,” Neutra said, stressing that redeeming captives holds essential value in Jewish tradition.

Highlighted Emotions and Strength

As the families relayed their stories, the pain and urgency were palpable, heartfelt pleas captured the audience’s attention. They highlighted not just personal tragedies but a national campaign to focus on hostage liberation as a priority.

The Bigger Picture

The panel was moderated by award-winning producer Daniella Greenbaum, and attended by approximately 70 relatives of the Israeli hostages. The event, organized in collaboration with Bank Leumi and the Defense and Security Forum of Israel, highlighted the concentrated efforts to address the hostages’ situations on multiple fronts.

This story was first published on jpost.com.