Portraits of Hostages Taken After Hamas Attack on Israel

A temporary cease-fire agreement is in place to facilitate the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas terrorists in Gaza. This presents hope to the families and friends of those still held captive after they were abducted from southern Israel on Oct. 7. Roughly 240 people were taken to Gaza by terrorists in Hamas’ deadly rampage. Israel and Hamas have agreed to a four-day halt, which will also see the release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Qatar announced a deal wherein 50 hostages would be released in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners. The truce is due to be extended a further day for every 10 hostages released. Israel has shown support to the hostages and their families, and are hoping to have many more returned home.

Here are the stories of a number of hostages:

Emily Hand celebrated her eighth birthday last year before being taken to Gaza by terrorists who attacked her kibbutz. Told she was dead and then that she was still alive, Emily’s father, Thomas, is eager for her safe return.

19-year-old Itay Chen was taken captive during military duty. He is remembered by his family as a fearless person who was on the basketball court despite his short stature.

Liat Beinin and Aviv Atzili, partners who valued peace, love and compassion, were also taken hostage. Liat’s father, Yehuda, is doing his best to keep their names in the public eye in the hope that they might hear his words and return home.

70-year-old Luis Har has left an impact on his kibbutz and is beloved by his family. He was visiting when terrorists took him and his loved ones hostage. His daughter, Rinat, is desperate for his return and hopes to see him again soon.

Alex Dancg, a child of Holocaust survivors, left Poland at the age of nine for a life in Israel. He remained in touch with his heritage and often visited Poland, returning to his Israeli family. They are worried for him and eagerly await his safe return.



Source link