Four Americans remain captive one year after the Oct. 7 attack by Hamas

Four Americans, including Edan Alexander, Omer Neutra, Sagui Dekel-Chen, and Keith Siegel, are among the dozens of hostages still believed to be alive following the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks on Israel last year. The hostages were taken from Israeli communities and a music festival during the surprise attack. Edan Alexander, a 20-year-old Israeli soldier from New Jersey, was stationed near the Gaza border and reassured his mother of his safety before being kidnapped. His parents are pushing for his release, and hope remains high as several released hostages saw him alive in Gaza’s tunnels. Omer Neutra, a soldier from Long Island, was captured while trying to repel Hamas’ attack. His family and community are pushing for his release with fundraisers, rallies, and pleas to political leaders. Sagui Dekel-Chen, a husband and father from Kibbutz Nir Oz, has been held hostage for two months when his youngest daughter was born. His family is determined to see him reunited with his children. Keith Siegel, an occupational therapist, and his wife, Aviva, were both taken hostage, with Aviva being released in a temporary cease-fire deal. Keith appeared in a propaganda video in April, expressing love for his family and recalling past Passover celebrations. Aviva is advocating vigorously for her husband’s release, meeting with political leaders and speaking out against the plight of the hostages left to die slowly in captivity. The families of the American hostages are holding onto hope and continuing to push for their loved ones’ safe return.

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