Steve Witkoff, the U.S. presidential envoy, met yesterday (Sunday) in the United States with former hostages and families of those still held in captivity. Among those present were Omer Shem Tov, Keith and Aviva Siegel, and Iair Horn—all recently freed from Hamas captivity, with the exception of Aviva Siegel, who was released in the first hostage deal nearly a year ago.
Steve Witkoff’s son, Alex, shared a photo from the meeting on social media platform X, writing that his father is deeply committed to the cause: “My father is fighting to bring every hostage home.” He described the mission as one that has already achieved partial success and continues with real hope of returning every man and woman still held captive.
Powerful evening with Steven Witkoff, former hostages Omer Shem Tov, Keith & Aviva Siegel, Iair Horn, & many family members of Hamas hostages. My father alongside President Trump helped secure the release of dozens of hostages & is fighting for the safe return of every hostage pic.twitter.com/art3zltrrS
— Alex Witkoff (@Alex_Witkoff) April 7, 2025
Protest and Prayer – Hostages First
Meanwhile in Israel, hostage families held a series of protests and prayer gatherings to mark a year and a half since October 7. A special prayer service was held outside the Prime Minister’s Residence in Jerusalem, featuring testimonies and audio recordings from freed hostages. Demonstrations were also held outside the homes of various ministers, with signs reading, “History will remember.”
“Bring Them All Back”
Chair of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee, MK Yuli Edelstein, spoke with the parents of captive soldier Itay Chen, who were protesting outside his home. They gave him a sticker with their son’s image, which he placed on his car in solidarity.
Families are urging leaders to advance negotiations to bring all the hostages home. “Fifty-nine people are still being held—it’s time to bring them all back,” said the uncle of the late Tamir Adar.
