“I will do all I can to rebuild Nir Oz,” released hostage Gadi Moses told his children, seeing them for the first time Thursday after nearly 500 days in Palestinian Islamic Jihad captivity, Israeli media reported.
Gadi, an internationally renowned agronomist and one of the founders of Kibbutz Nir Oz, has a deep love for his kibbutz and family, the kibbutz said.
Gadi is someone who is there for anyone in need – “a man of family, land, and wine. A beloved father and grandfather, a man with a wide heart and endless patience.” the community said.
“With his broad smile and constant optimism, Gadi was among those who established the Nir Oz winery – a place of calm and quality wine that became a symbol of fulfilled dreams. The land and wine were always part of him, as was his close family.”
Moses has expertise in wastewater management and field crops. He is frequently sent abroad by the Agriculture Ministry to teach countries how to improve crops, the kibbutz said.
“Gadi loves the fields and feels a deep joy every time he reaches them, digging his hands into the soil,” his kibbutz said.
Advocate for Palestinian rights and peace
He also worked as a peace activist, helping to advocate for Palestinian rights and peace. Moses marked his 80th birthday in Hamas captivity in Gaza in March.
Last year, Moses’ granddaughter Shani visited New York City for the first time alongside her father, Yair Moses, to help bring awareness about her grandfather’s plight after he marked 100 days in captivity. She tried to share positive memories she had with him.
“My hope is he’s staying strong. I know my grandfather is a really strong person,” Shani shared.