Hostage families urge public to keep their loved ones at center of Independence Day events

Ahead of Israel’s Independence Day next week, the families of several Gaza hostages urge the public not to normalize the absence of the 59 captives by celebrating the anniversary of the State’s founding as if nothing were amiss.

The families issue their plea during a press conference in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, where they stand in front of large yellow posters declaring in Hebrew that independence “isn’t complete until everyone returns.”

Echoing the message on the posters, Lishay Miran Lavi, wife of hostage Omri Miran, says that the idea of “celebrating” independence right now makes her uncomfortable.

She appeals for the public to adjust their Independence Day plans, warning that Israel must not “become a society that normalizes a situation in which our loved ones are in Gaza.”

“Instead of independence celebrations, hold solidarity rallies. Make sure the yellow flags are raised everywhere. Read the names of the 59 hostages at every opportunity,” she says. “We must not continue to celebrate as if we have complete independence.”

Yotam Cohen, brother of captive IDF soldier Nimrod Cohen, says that for the country to mark Memorial Day and Independence Day without the return of all remaining captives is “a sin against the values of the state and Israel’s heritage.”

“Make sure that they are not forgotten on these important days, do not lend a hand to those who try to normalize the situation,” he urges.”

Striking a similar tone, Nadav Rudaeff, whose father Lior Rudaeff was killed on October 7 and his body taken to Gaza, accuses Israel of breaking the promise on which the country was founded.

“The State of Israel was founded 77 years ago on the promise of being a safe home for all Jews and protecting them from those who seek to harm us. On October 7, the State of Israel and the IDF failed and broke this promise,” he says, adding: “Do not remain indifferent!”