Family of released hostage Karina Ariev: ‘We are finally able to hear her voice, see her smile that fills us with light’

Israelis hold a poster of Karina Ariev as they watch the release of four hostages held by Hamas at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, January 25, 2025 (Tomer Neuberg/Flash90)
Israelis hold a poster of Karina Ariev as they watch the release of four hostages held by Hamas at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, January 25, 2025 (Tomer Neuberg/Flash90)

The family of Karina Ariev say that they are thrilled that she has finally returned home, but their hearts are with the others still held hostage in Gaza.

“Our hearts are filled with immense gratitude and happiness. After 477 long and harrowing days of pain, worry and endless anxiety, we were finally able to hug our beloved Karina, hear her voice, and see her smile that fills us with light again,” the family says in a statement.

“Our Karina is a symbol of courage, strength of heart and determination, and we are proud of her beyond words,” the family says, thanking everyone who has supported them over the past 15 months.

“At the same time, our hearts are with the family of [hostage] Agam Berger and the other women who are still waiting for their miracle,” the Arievs say. “We will not be silent and will not rest until each and every one of them returns home.”

Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy and Liri Albag were freed by Hamas this morning after they were taken from the Nahal Oz base, along with Berger, on October 7, 2023. Berger remains in captivity.

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