Amit Soussana, who was abducted from her home during the Hamas attack on October 7, will receive the 2025 International Women of Courage Award from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio this coming Tuesday. She is one of eight recipients being honored for their extraordinary bravery and leadership in the face of adversity.
Presented by First Lady Melania Trump
The award will be presented by First Lady Melania Trump during a formal ceremony at the U.S. State Department in Washington, attended by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
A Leading Voice for the Hostages
On the morning of October 7, Soussana fought off multiple armed Hamas terrorists for over 40 minutes in an attempt to avoid abduction. Despite her efforts, she was taken to Gaza and held captive for 55 days, enduring severe physical and sexual abuse.
Since her release, Soussana has become a central voice in the campaign to bring the remaining hostages home.
In an address to the UN Security Council, she shared her story and called for international action:
“I urge you, do not look away from the atrocities committed against innocent civilians. It is your duty to protect human rights, fight terrorism, and bring those responsible to justice. The world is watching, waiting for the UN Security Council to fulfill its mandate.”
For the Mothers, Wives, Sisters, and Daughters
Speaking about the award, Soussana said: “I’m deeply honored to receive the U.S. Secretary of State’s International Women of Courage Award. I accept it on behalf of the brave women who fought on October 7 with unimaginable courage, defending their homes from terror. I accept it on behalf of the women who fought alongside their brothers in arms, and for the women who endured captivity, who found strength in one another and emerged stronger. I dedicate it to the mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters who are now fighting with all their hearts for the return of their loved ones. This award comes at a critical moment.”
Soussana used the moment to call once again for urgent action:
“The hostages can’t wait. With each passing day, their suffering grows and their chances of survival decrease. I call on the world—bring them home now. I thank President Trump and his administration for their efforts on the hostage deal, and I trust they will continue until every last one is free.”
