Passover 2025 Gaza hostages cast a somber shadow over celebrations, as many Israelis reflect on freedom while loved ones remain captive.
This is the second Passover since the deadly October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, and 59 hostages are still believed to be held in Gaza. For families like that of Omri Miran, the absence is overwhelming.
A Missing Father at the Seder
Two years ago, Lishay Miran Lavi celebrated Passover as a complete family. Her husband, Omri, now 48, was kidnapped from their home in Kibbutz Nahal Oz and taken to Gaza. Each night, their daughters talk to his picture before bed, telling “Daddy Omri” about their day.
Omri’s last birthday passed without him. The family continues to celebrate holidays for their children’s sake, but each celebration only deepens the void.
Pain and Protest
Viki Cohen, whose 20-year-old son Nimrod was kidnapped from a tank, says her family no longer marks Jewish holidays — the grief is too intense. But she’s channeling that pain into action, creating a children’s Haggadah that subtly honors each hostage, including symbols unique to their personalities.
She encourages Jews around the world to “adopt a hostage” this Passover — to say their names, share their stories, and demand their release.
A Modern-Day Exodus
Passover 2025 Gaza hostages bring mixed emotions—some families rejoice in reunions, while others endure heartbreaking absence. Meirav Leshem Gonen’s daughter, Romi, returned home in January after 15 months in Gaza.
Still, the message of redemption, solidarity, and freedom takes on renewed urgency this year. “This feels like a modern-day Exodus from Egypt,” said Michael Levy, who welcomed his brother Or home in February.
As families break matzah and pour wine, they share a story of liberation that echoes in today’s call for unity and action.
Source: AP News
