On October 7, 2023, several Hamas terrorists infiltrated southern Israel and managed to take several hundred people back to Gaza as hostages, in addition to murdering over 1,200 people.
Their safety has been the subject of great concern to the Israeli public, who campaign for their release and safety as the IDF's war on Hamas continues. So far, several hostages have been released, most of them due to a ceasefire and prisoner exchange.
It is currently unknown exactly how many hostages are currently alive in Gaza, though most estimates place it at over 100 at the time of writing.
The survey, conducted late last week and early this week, was released ahead of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington, DC.
To all the hostages who hear me now, know that the fight is ongoing, and we are not giving up on you," Aloni said.
“For the past 16 months, we've fought on all fronts, lost dear friends, and seen many others wounded – all to prevent the next October 7, the organization of IDF reservists said.
Also during the match, Beitar Jerusalem played with new orange jerseys in honor of the Bibas family and called for their release, as Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir are still being held hostage.
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In attendance at the event were also families of nine hostages held in Gaza captivity.
Last Thursday, Thenna Pongsak, 36, Sathian Suwannakham, 35, Sriaoun Watchara, 33, Seathao Bannawat, 27, and Rumnao Surasak, 32 were released from Gaza captivity.
“My thoughts are with the 79 families who are still in agony, waiting for their loved ones' return,” Aviva Siegel stated.
Beitar Jerusalem wore orange jerseys in match against Maccabi Tel Aviv to draw attention to the continued captivity of Shiri Bibas and her sons Ariel and Kfir in Gaza.
Hamas has previously promised to prioritize the release of Troufanov as well as Maxim Herkin but without any specifics or timeline.
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