Families of Freed Hostages Open Up About Their Feelings

Families of four young Israeli women freed from Hamas captivity Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag shared their relief and gratitude in a heartfelt meeting with reporters at Beilinson Hospital in Petah Tikva. While rejoicing over the reunions, the families underscored that their mission is far from over: more than 90 hostages remain in Gaza.

Yoni Levy, father of Naama, expressed profound emotion: “This is the moment I prayed for for 477 days. Naama is safe, but the fight is not over. The hostages still there are our daughters and sons. Please continue to fight until the last hostage comes home.”

Daniella’s mother, Orly, shared similar sentiments: “Daniella is at home. How long I waited to say those words. She suffered but kept her Israeli spirit. Still, we won’t stop until Agam and all others are back with us.” Orly recounted how her family added a letter to Daniella’s name during her captivity, following Jewish traditions for spiritual protection.

Karina Ariev’s sister, Shasha, voiced gratitude to soldiers on the frontlines and emphasized the shared grief for those who have been lost. “Karina knows what it feels like to be a hostage. She can’t stop thinking about those still there. We will not rest until they are all back home.”

The release of the four women, aged 19 to 20, marks a hopeful step amid the ongoing crisis. As part of the ceasefire agreement, Israel has freed 200 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the hostages. A total of 33 Israelis are expected to be released over six weeks, depending on how many remain alive. Critics argue that this phased approach leaves other captives in prolonged uncertainty.

Eli Albag, father of Liri, stressed the continued urgency of the situation: “Liri is back, but 90 hostages remain. My soul is with the families who lost loved ones, and my heart breaks for the soldiers who fell in battle. We must keep working for those still held captive.”

Since Hamas’s brutal October 7 attack, which left at least 1,200 dead and 252 people taken hostage, the nation has united in its call for the safe return of every Israeli held in Gaza. The emotional testimonies of these families serve as a reminder of the human cost of the conflict and the resilience of those fighting for their loved ones’ freedom.

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