Congressman Hamadeh Advocates for Israeli Hostage Families During Heartfelt Gathering

By Staff Reporter |

Congressman Abe Hamadeh recently hosted the families of Israeli hostages remaining from the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack. As the solemn anniversary approaches, emotions run high among those waiting for the safe return of their loved ones.

Among the families present were Ronen and Orna Neutra, who attended on behalf of their son, Omer Neutra, an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldier. Ilana Gritzewsky was there for her partner, Matan Zangauker, while Moshe Lavi represented his brother-in-law, Omri Miran.

Hamadeh expressed profound empathy, stating, “Our hearts are with Ronen and Orna Neutra, Illana Gritzewsky, and Moshe Lavi. We will do everything we can to get justice for those lost and bring the remaining hostages back home.”

Others attending included Daniel Lifshitz, who spoke for his grandparents, Oded and Yocheved Lifshitz; Gal Dalal for his brother, Guy Gilboa-Dalal; and Ilay David for his brother, Evyatar David. Their participation coincided with a special roundtable hosted by the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

Chairman Brian Mast emphasized the responsibility of the U.S. government to recover the hostages, proclaiming, “Congress and the world must hear from each of you because there are individuals in Washington and across the globe who will deny, and they will whitewash what has taken place.”

He condemned those attempting to excuse the actions of terrorists, reminding attendees of the brutal attack that resulted in the loss of 1,200 innocent lives.

In addition to the families present, other American hostages affected by the conflict include Itay Chen, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Gadi, and Judi Haggai.

Recent developments include Hamas’s announcement of an indefinite postponement of a planned hostage swap originally scheduled for Saturday. The group accused Israel of violating the ceasefire, which complicates the ongoing negotiations.

President Donald Trump commented on the situation, underscoring his dissatisfaction with the current pace of hostage releases. He warned of serious consequences if the remaining hostages are not released, indicating that 76 captives are still unaccounted for, with at least 44 believed to be alive.

Trump also suggested that should the hostage situation not improve by the designated deadline, the ceasefire would be terminated. “Hamas will find out what I mean,” he stated, referring to the urgent necessity for the group to comply.