What It’s About

Almog Meir Jan, an Israeli hostage, reunited with his family after being released from Hamas captivity. During his time in captivity, he learned Arabic and Russian.

Why It Matters

The hostage’s release underscores Israel’s commitment to bringing its citizens home safely. It also highlights the complex and often unimaginable conditions hostages endure. This story brings attention to the emotional and human aspect of Israeli hostages’ experiences and the continuing efforts to secure their freedom.

The Details

Speaking at Sheba Medical Center in Ramat Gan, Almog’s mother, Orit Meir, shared in a press conference that her son was exposed to news on Al Jazeera in Arabic and learned Arabic and Russian during his time in captivity. “He learned Arabic but also Russian from [fellow hostage] Andrey Kozlov,” she elaborated.

She recounted the tangible impact the captivity had, mentioning how Almog saw pictures of himself at a rally on May 11. Emotionally recounting the ordeal, Orit said, “This is the first time I have slept in eight months. I couldn’t believe it at first, I asked ‘is he alive?’ and let out a scream of joy. Everyone gathered around me, we went to our room and started packing. Everyone sang ‘Am Yisrael Chai.’”

One of Almog’s family members urged the Israeli government to pursue a ceasefire and accept a hostage deal proposed by US President Joe Biden, acknowledging the challenges involved in rescuing the remaining hostages. “I am one of the lucky ones,” added Orit, recognizing that “there are 120 families who are waiting without being able to breathe or sleep without thinking about their loved ones in Gaza.”

This story was first published on jpost.com.