Agam Berger, Arbel Yehud, Gadi Moses, Return Home After 482 Days in Captivity

After 482 days in Hamas captivity, Israeli soldier Agam Berger was finally reunited with her family on Thursday. Her release, along with Arbel Yehud and Gadi Moses, came as part of a previously unplanned exchange, bringing relief and celebration across Israel.

"Our hero Agam has returned to us," her family declared in a heartfelt statement. "She is strong, faithful, and brave. We thank the security forces and the people of Israel for their support and prayers."

Yet, even in their joy, they emphasized that their recovery will not be complete until all remaining hostages are brought home.

In Holon, Berger’s hometown, friends, relatives, and neighbors gathered to celebrate her return. Holon Mayor Shai Keinan expressed the city’s joy, saying, "We join all of Israel in welcoming Agam home!"

For Liri Albag, Naama Levy, Daniella Gilboa, and Karina Ariev Berger’s fellow IDF observers who were released earlier the moment was deeply emotional. Albag shared how Berger refused to eat meat for 482 days because it was not kosher, showing extraordinary resilience even in captivity.

"You and your mother made the same journey, just on different sides of the fence," Albag told Berger’s mother.

An Emotional Tribute

Social media flooded with messages of gratitude and relief, as former hostages and their families welcomed Berger back. Romi Gonen, freed just last week, posted "Thank God."

In a powerful gesture, friends of Dolev Yehud, who was murdered on October 7, wrote in the sand: "How good you came home, Arbeli."

Israel's Leadership Responds

President Isaac Herzog called the release "a moment of deep emotion for the entire nation."

"From an 80-year-old man to a 20-year-old soldier they endured hell with bravery and are finally home," Herzog said.

Despite the relief, over 100 hostages remain in Hamas captivity, and their families continue to push for their return.

Israel stands united in the fight to bring them all home.

Stay updated by subscribing to our newsletter or sharing this article.