500 Days in Captivity: Families of Hostages Fast and Rally Across Israel
Families of hostages held in Gaza marked the 500th day since the tragic events of October 7, 2023, with nationwide rallies and a collective 500-minute fast. The event was organized by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum to highlight the ongoing plight of the captives and urge their immediate release.
The fast commenced at 11:40 a.m. and concluded at 8:00 p.m., culminating in a rally at Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square. This location has become a central gathering point for supporters and families. Throughout the day, demonstrators blocked major roads, including Tel Aviv’s central Namir Road, to draw attention to their cause. In Jerusalem, participants marched from the Hostages and Missing Families Forum tent near the Prime Minister’s residence to the Knesset.
Ohad Ben Ami, recently released after enduring 16 months of harsh captivity, emphasized the profound impact of public support. He shared that awareness of external efforts on his behalf provided immense strength during his ordeal. Ben Ami passionately called for widespread participation in the demonstrations, stating, “What strongly kept my hopes up down there was that I knew people were fighting for me.” His words resonate deeply, highlighting the critical role of communal solidarity in sustaining the spirits of those still held captive.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, under the banner “Get them out of hell,” has been instrumental in organizing these events. Their relentless advocacy reflects a steadfast commitment to the Torah’s teachings on the sanctity of life and the mitzvah of pidyon shvuyim.
Hostages Square has evolved into a focal point for continuous vigils, prayers, and artistic expressions advocating for the hostages’ return. Installations, such as an empty Shabbat dinner table with seats representing each missing individual, poignantly capture the void felt by families and the broader community. These symbols serve as a constant reminder of the absence of loved ones and the enduring hope for their safe return.