Former Israeli Hostage Urges Continued Fight for Gaza Captives at LA Event

On the 600th day since Hamas abducted 251 people during the October 7, 2023 attack, Israeli society continues to focus on the plight of the hostages held in Gaza. Former hostage Eliya Cohen, who was held for 505 days before his release in February 2025, has become a prominent voice urging continued efforts for the freedom of the remaining 58 hostages, describing the fight as "the most Israeli, the most Jewish, and the most human thing we can do." Cohen shared harrowing details of his captivity in Hamas’s underground tunnels and emphasized the unity and determination demonstrated by Israelis and supporters worldwide during events such as the "Israel United: Celebrating Israel at 77" gathering in Los Angeles. Meanwhile, families of hostages in Israel continue to plead for action, warning that stalled negotiations risk the lives of those still captive. The ongoing conflict has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and severe humanitarian crises in Gaza, with Israel maintaining military pressure until Hamas disarms and releases all hostages.