Families of Israeli Hostages in Gaza Mark Hanukkah, Urge Government to Act on Release
Families and relatives of Israeli hostages held in Gaza gathered in Tel Aviv on Wednesday to mark the start of Hanukkah, as they did last year, but with the somber reality that the second consecutive holiday season has begun without their loved ones. The event was organized by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum Headquarters and featured a silent protest led by Shift 101, a pressure group demanding an immediate deal to return the 100 hostages.
During the vigil, mothers and female relatives of the hostages, joined by supporters, held a three-hour silent protest in white clothing, demanding an immediate deal to return all hostages. The event was followed by a candle-lighting ceremony at Beit Ariela in Tel Aviv, where Shira Albag, mother of Liri Albag, lit the first candle. Participants prayed together for the return of the hostages.
Recent diplomatic efforts have sparked hope for a possible deal, with top US, Israeli, Qatari, and Egyptian officials touting progress. While a deal is not guaranteed, the upbeat language and diplomatic activity have signaled momentum towards a resolution. Israeli negotiators returned home from talks in Qatar on Tuesday for “internal consultations.”
In the meantime, families continue to push for action. “We won’t let the light go out. We must light the first candle and begin the deal. May each candle light the next until all our light returns with the homecoming of 100 hostages through a deal,” said Shay Dickmann, cousin of Carmel Gat, who was killed during captivity.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and other leaders have also addressed the issue. Herzog called on the government to act with all its might to secure a deal, while Netanyahu focused on the military victory of the Maccabees of old and the current Israeli military campaigns in the region. Despite the renewed efforts, the reality remains dire, with at least 36 of the original hostages confirmed dead by Israel.