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“There is no greater mitzvah than redeeming captives.”

We are deeply moved and thankful for the joyful news about the rescue of the four hostages who were held in Gaza by Hamas for over 8 months: Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov and Shlomi Ziv. After being kidnapped by terrorists from the Nova Music Festival on October 7, these individuals are finally home with their families and loved ones.

As we celebrate this joy and relief, we cannot forget the 120 hostages, men, women, and children, that are still being held captive in Gaza, and we pray for their immediate and safe return home, and for an end to the suffering of all innocent people.

Yesterday’s extremely dangerous rescue operation resulted in the death of Lt. Col. Arnon Zemora z”l, an Israeli officer in the elite Yamam counter-terrorism unit. We mourn his tragic death and send our deepest condolences to his family, and solute him for his bravery.

As we approach the 100th day since Hamas' brutal attack on Israel, Masorti and MERCAZ Olami reaffirm their commitment to help free the 136 hostages still held by the terrorist group and support their families, and appeal to the mitzvah of Pidion Shvuim (פִּדְיוֹן שְׁבוּיִים - literally: redemption of captives), so that the situation remains the priority of the Government of Israel.

Israel at War | We call for the immediate release of the hostages

Israel at War | Statement on the Israeli Security Forces' Hostage Rescue Operation

Israel at War | Statement on the Israeli Security Forces' Hostage Rescue Operation

June 9th, 2024

“There is no greater mitzvah than redeeming captives.”

(Maimonides)

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