Former Hostages, Holocaust Survivors March at Auschwitz

The 2025 March of the Living at Auschwitz-Birkenau brought together Holocaust survivors, former hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, and bereaved families to commemorate Holocaust Remembrance Day and mark 80 years since the liberation of Nazi death camps. Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Polish President Andrzej Duda led delegations, emphasizing the enduring imperative to combat antisemitism and to secure the return of hostages still held in Gaza. For the first time, released hostages from the October 7 Hamas attack participated in the march, with Agam Berger—who survived 482 days in captivity—joining survivors and performing at the main ceremony. Participants drew parallels between the Holocaust and recent acts of antisemitic violence, underscoring the message 'Never Again Is Now.' The event included 80 Holocaust survivors and delegations from around the world, with ceremonies of remembrance, prayer, and music held at significant sites within Auschwitz. Organizers and attendees stressed the importance of remembrance, resilience, and the ongoing responsibility to oppose hatred and violence.