Over one year has passed since the inception of the Israel-Hamas war on October 7, 2023. In the dire aftermath of such a tragedy, it is of the utmost importance that we maintain high hopes for humanity, peace, and, most importantly, the safe return of our loved ones. For the family of 19-year-old Liri Albag, who was taken captive during the initial attacks launched by Hamas on Oct. 7, those “high hopes” have been their driving force in their efforts to bring her home. Her story serves as a reminder of the nonstop pain felt by families of the hostages still held captive in Gaza.
The young adult’s loved ones have been steadfast in their advocacy for her rescue since the day she was taken hostage. Recently, many of Albag’s relatives came together in Tel-Aviv to demand a ceasefire and her urgent return. They held posters bearing her smiling face despite the tears that streamed down their own. Recently, the Israeli government released a video of Albag. In the video, she begged officials to close a deal with Hamas. Her parents, devastated by the state of their daughter, decided to send in a plea of their own. “Make decisions as if your own children were there,” they wrote to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has described the above mentioned video as “undeniable proof of the urgency in bringing all the hostages home.” Every passing day leaves them yearning for a reunion. To them, Albag is not only a hostage, but a daughter, a sister, a friend, a dedicated soldier, and a symbol of the strength of the Jewish people.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog has made the strong commitment to stay actively involved in the affairs of the hostages. As the war drags on to 2025, we must never cease the call of “Bring Them Home” that has served in uniting the people of Israel and its supporters worldwide. We cannot allow the voice of Liri Albag to be silenced. Her story and the stories of all the others must serve as a pushing force to end the suffering and give hope to those who wait in anguish for a sign of life from their loved ones.
Let us remember the lives of those such as Liri Albag not as numbers showcased online, but as people who deserve to come home and live the rest of their days in peace. We will not rest until they are safely returned to their loved ones. Bring them home. Bring Liri home.
