NEW YORK — Some families of Israelis and Americans taken hostage by Hamas addressed the United Nations on Friday, asking the world to help.
As the war rages on, the relatives of Palestinians find themselves in a state of deep concern, fearing for the safety and survival of their loved ones amidst the chaos.
Alana Zeitchik pleaded, “I implore you to assist me in reuniting my family.”
- Related story: Dual pro-Israeli, pro-Palestinian demonstrations fill Times Square
Americans and Israelis, filled with anguish, implored the international community at the U.N. to ensure the safe return of their beloved ones who have been abducted by Hamas.
Yoni Asher expressed that he is a father who unfortunately had his entire family, comprising his wife and two baby daughters, taken away from him.
Asher is aware that his family was forcibly taken to Gaza, as he came across a video on social media showing his wife and children being transported in a vehicle by their captors.
He expressed, “There are no words to capture the indescribable moment when you witness your entire family being taken away from you.”
- Related story: New York City synagogues receive outpouring of support for people of Israel at Friday night services
At the U.N., a screen displayed images of the kidnapped individuals. Among them are American citizens, including a cousin of a rabbi.
According to the rabbi, he was kidnapped by the Hamas terrorists, forcibly placed onto a truck, and subsequently held captive.
Najwa Alsadi expressed her extreme terror and shared that she had spent the entire day in tears due to a overwhelming sense of hopelessness, as she told CBS New York.
She states that her sister, who is paralyzed, and her family are currently in Gaza, taking shelter in place. However, she expresses uncertainty regarding their survival.
Alsadi expressed concern about the lack of electricity and water, questioning how the affected individuals would manage to survive. They pondered upon the permissibility of such a situation and urged immediate action to address the issue, emphasizing the importance of not burdening innocent individuals with the consequences.
- Read more: Palestinians in New Jersey worry about friends and family trapped in Gaza
According to Daniel Casher, Israelis are left with no alternative. Casher, along with his team, played a crucial role in safeguarding his kibbutz, Yad Mordechai, against the threat posed by Hamas militants until the intervention of special forces.
Casher recounted, “Amidst my children’s tears, I reassured them and my wife, urging them to remain within the safety zone. It was then that they witnessed the arrival of the terrorists on motorcycles, prompting them to open fire.”
Michael Freund’s five sons will fervently defend Israel.
“He expressed experiencing numerous sleepless nights and feeling anxious, yet an immense sense of pride. He proudly acknowledges them, expressing his love and admiration for their accomplishments.”
According to the U.S. ambassador to the U.N., close collaboration between the United States and Israeli partners is underway to facilitate the safe return of American hostages. The Israeli consulate has reported that 21 Americans are currently unaccounted for, with the unfortunate news that 18 among them have tragically lost their lives.
- In:
- Hamas
- Israel
- United Nations
