Former Hostage Pleads for Release of All Remaining Captives in Gaza

A Birthday Wish for Freedom

On my 32nd birthday, I woke up to the devastating news of the ceasefire collapse. This same ceasefire had enabled my return just two months prior, after 530 days of captivity in Gaza. My 31st birthday was spent in a dark tunnel, enduring unimaginable trauma.

I was born in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, a close-knit community where neighbors are family. On October 7, 2023, that family was shattered when I was kidnapped from my bed and dragged into Gaza. My 471 days in captivity were filled with darkness, fear, and desperation.

My release was a testament to the tireless efforts of many, including President Trump's commitment to bringing hostages home. I am eternally grateful for his dedication.

Recently, I had the honor of meeting with President Trump and sharing my story. I emphasized the urgency of bringing home all remaining hostages, especially Gali and Ziv Berman, my former neighbors from Kfar Aza.

The story of Kfar Aza's young generation neighborhood is a tragic one. Of the 37 residents, 11 were murdered and seven were kidnapped on October 7th. Today, Gali and Ziv, 27-year-old twins, remain the only two in captivity.

Sharing my story is difficult, but I do it because I understand the importance of conveying the reality of life in captivity. I know firsthand what Gali, Ziv, and the other 57 hostages are enduring.

I cannot forget those I left behind. Their faces, names, and pain are constantly with me. While I am free, they remain in the tunnels, suffering unimaginable hardship.

When I met President Trump, I was joined by five other recently released hostages. We flew to DC, leaving behind our families after months of separation. We understood the importance of sharing our stories and advocating for those left behind.

To President Trump, thank you for listening, understanding, and committing to our freedom. Your administration has already brought many of us home. Please use your influence to secure the release of all remaining hostages, both living and deceased.

The remaining 59 hostages represent 59 families trapped in a nightmare. They are fathers, young men, and soldiers who were violently taken from their lives.

As someone who has emerged from that hell, I implore those with the power to act. President Trump has shown that progress is possible. Now we need to finish what began with my release and bring everyone home.

I survived. I came home. Now I fight for those who cannot fight for themselves, for my kibbutz family still held in Gaza, for all the hostages trapped in those tunnels. We cannot rest until every hostage returns home. The day I truly regain my freedom will be the day when all 59 remaining hostages return to us.

Until then, I will continue to share my story, no matter how painful, and carry their voices with me. Please, Mr. President, help us get them out of hell.