Imagine waking up every day for over two years, not knowing if your loved one is alive, trapped in a hostile territory. This is the agonizing reality for the families of the 20 Gaza hostages believed to be alive and expected to be released soon. But here's where it gets even more heart-wrenching: these individuals, with dreams, families, and futures, have become pawns in a complex geopolitical conflict. Their stories, filled with hope, despair, and resilience, demand to be told.
The ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, brokered after immense international pressure, promises the release of these 20 hostages, alongside approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. And this is the part most people miss: behind each name is a human story, a life interrupted, and a family torn apart. Let’s delve into who these individuals are, what they’ve endured, and the controversies surrounding their captivity.
Alon Ohel (24) — A talented musician and pianist, Alon was abducted from the Nova music festival, dragged from a shelter amidst the chaos. His parents, tireless advocates for his return, have symbolically placed dozens of pianos across Israel with the message, 'You are not alone.' In 2024, his mother, Idit, organized a concert on the Gaza border, declaring, 'I know he’s alive because he was taken alive, and I know he’s alive because I’m a mother.' Controversially, some critics argue that such public displays may politicize the hostages’ plight, but supporters see it as a necessary act of defiance and hope.
Ariel (28) and David (35) Cunio — These brothers from Kibbutz Nir Oz were abducted alongside their wives and children, who were later released. Their mother, Sylvia, clings to optimism, saying, 'I just want them all home.' But here’s a thought-provoking question: Does the selective release of hostages highlight the uneven bargaining power between Israel and Hamas, or is it a pragmatic step toward peace?
Avinatan Or (32) — A high-tech professional with a degree in electrical and computer engineering, Avinatan was kidnapped from the Nova festival with his partner, Noa Argamani, who was rescued last year. Footage of their separation became a haunting symbol of the October 7 attacks. Is it ethical to use such footage to galvanize public opinion, or does it exploit the victims’ trauma?
Bar Kupershtein (23) — The family’s primary breadwinner after his father’s disability, Bar was abducted while working at the Nova festival. His passion for motorcycles and last appearance in a Hamas video in April 2025 keep his family’s hopes alive. But what does it say about the conflict when a young man’s dreams are shattered by violence?
Elkana Bohbot (36) — Abducted from the Nova festival, Elkana has appeared in several videos, the most recent in May 2025. His mother’s plea, 'I just want to see the headline, ‘We signed the deal,’' reflects the exhaustion of countless families. Is the international community doing enough to expedite these negotiations, or are geopolitical interests slowing progress?
Eitan Horn (39) — Kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz with his brother Yair, Eitan spent part of his captivity with him before Yair’s release. Does the separation of siblings in such circumstances underscore the cruelty of hostage-taking, or is it a strategic move by captors?
Eitan Mor (25) — A barista with dreams of owning a café, Eitan was kidnapped from the Nova festival. His family opposes compromise deals with Hamas, arguing they endanger Israelis long-term. Is their stance justified, or does it risk prolonging the suffering of hostages?
Evyatar David (24) — A café shift manager planning a trip to Southeast Asia, Evyatar was kidnapped alongside his friend Guy Gilboa Dalal. Hamas videos showing him emaciated and digging his own grave sparked outrage. How should the international community respond to such psychological warfare?
Gali Berman and Ziv Berman (28) — Twin brothers from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, these soccer-loving entrepreneurs were abducted from their home. Released hostages confirmed they were alive but held separately—the longest separation of their lives. Does their story highlight the human cost of conflict, or is it just another tragic statistic?
Guy Gilboa-Dalal (24) — An anime enthusiast planning a trip to Japan, Guy was abducted with Evyatar. His brother Gal escaped, but Guy endured severe abuse. What responsibility does the global community have to address the mental and physical trauma of hostages like Guy?
Maxim Herkin (35) — An Israel-Russian dual national, Maxim was abducted from the Nova festival. His last message to his mother was, 'I love you.' Is the plight of dual nationals like Maxim overlooked in international diplomacy?
Matan Angrest (22) — A soldier captured when his tank was attacked, Matan endured abuse and interrogations. Does his story humanize the often dehumanized role of soldiers in conflict?
Matan Zangauker (25) — Abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz with his partner, Ilana, Matan’s mother has become a leading voice for hostages’ families. Are family advocates like her the most effective catalysts for change, or do they risk being co-opted by political agendas?
Nimrod Cohen (20) — A soldier taken from his tank, Nimrod’s mother wrote, 'My child, you are coming home,' after the ceasefire. Does his story offer hope, or is it a reminder of how much remains unresolved?
Omri Miran (48) — The oldest hostage, Omri, a shiatsu therapist, was abducted from his home in front of his family. His father’s advocacy has been pivotal. Is age a factor in the treatment of hostages, or are all victims equally vulnerable?
Rom Braslavski (21) — A soldier abducted after helping others escape, Rom’s health has deteriorated. Does his selflessness redefine heroism, or is it a tragic consequence of war?
Segev Kalfon (27) — Abducted while fleeing Hamas gunmen, Segev, a finance student with severe anxiety, has been denied critical medication. What does this say about the ethics of hostage-taking?
Yosef Chaim Ohana (25) — A bartender who risked his life to help others escape, Yosef’s love for cycling and hiking reflects a life on hold. Are such acts of bravery remembered, or do they fade in the shadow of conflict?
As these hostages await their release, the world watches, debates, and questions. But here’s the ultimate question: Can their stories unite us in humanity, or will they remain divisive symbols of a conflict with no end in sight? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going.
