sraeli President Isaac Herzog responded to the release of three Israeli civilian hostages today, condemning the mistreatment and starvation they endured while in the custody of Hamas terrorists.
“This is what a crime against humanity looks like!” Herzog stated. “The whole world must look directly at Ohad, Or, and Eli — returning after 491 days of hell, starved, emaciated and pained — being exploited in a cynical and cruel spectacle by vile murderers. We take solace in the fact that they are being returned alive to the arms of their loved ones.”
“Since her release from captivity, Raz, Ohad’s wife, along with their three brave daughters — Yulie, Ella, and Natalie — have led a determined struggle in Israel and around the world for his return,” Herzog added.
Relatedly, Herzog shared the story of Or and his wife, Einav, who attended the Nova festival before Einav was murdered by Hamas terrorists and Or was taken captive. Their son, Almog, known as ‘Mogi,’ who was only three years old, was cared for by family throughout this devastating ordeal. Now, he can finally embrace his father again.
“The tragedy of the Sharabi family is etched into the nation’s consciousness,” Herzog said. “Eli’s wife, Lianne, and their two daughters, Noiya and Yahel, were murdered on October 7 in Be’eri. His brother, Yossi, was kidnapped and did not survive captivity — we must bring him back to be laid to rest in dignity. Eli and Yossi’s mother, Hanna, and their siblings Sharon and Osnat have dedicated all their strength to the struggle for their return, together with their incredible family.”
In conclusion, Herzog emphasized, “Completing the hostage deal is a humanitarian, moral, and Jewish duty. It is essential to bring back all our sisters and brothers from the hell of captivity in Gaza — every last one of them!”
{Matzav.com Israel}