The news of the hostages, particularly the women, still remaining in Gaza following the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, has raised concerns and dashed hopes for the families of the captives. This article delves into the stories of some of the hostages and highlights the struggles they face, while also shedding light on the social media campaigns and support networks that have formed to advocate for their release.
The article begins by introducing Inbar Haiman, a 27-year-old street artist and art student who was kidnapped by Hamas during the Supernova music festival in Israel. Inbar’s partner’s brother, Or Neko Maymon, voices his anguish and emphasizes the importance of not losing hope for her return. Inbar’s boyfriend, Noam Alon, also embarked on a 10-day protest in front of the central military headquarters in Tel Aviv, demanding more action from the Israeli government.
The article goes on to disclose the number of hostages left in Gaza, with the Israeli government stating that 135 people remain captive and BBC News verifying 115. Among the captives are at least 16 women, including Shani Louk, who was tragically killed after being kidnapped from the festival. Shani’s boyfriend, Orión Hernández Radoux, remains in captivity and his friends and family gather each night in prayer for his safe return.
The families of the hostages have become a source of support for one another during this difficult time, forming a “large family of families,” as described by Gil Dickmann, whose cousin Carmel Gat is still captive. Gil expresses his fear and worry as the ceasefire ends, heightening concerns for the hostages’ safety.
Social media has played a significant role in the families’ efforts to campaign for their loved ones’ release and provide emotional support. Rachel Goldberg-Polin, the mother of American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin, uses the family’s Facebook page to share videos and stories about her son, rallying for his return. Hersh, who lost half of his arm in a grenade explosion before being kidnapped, remains missing, with witnesses reporting his last-known location near the Gaza border.
The article concludes by emphasizing the urgent need to bring the remaining hostages home and highlights the unwavering determination of the families fighting for their release. It explores the emotional and physical pain endured by the hostages and the impact it has on their loved ones. While the ceasefire has come to an end, the families refuse to lose hope and continue to seek justice for their captive relatives.
