The family of Keith Siegel, an American hostage recently released by Hamas, expressed immense relief and gratitude, describing their emotional response as “overwhelming” after 484 nights of fear and uncertainty. The Siegel family thanked both the Israeli and United States governments for their efforts in securing his release, emphasizing the critical importance of bringing all remaining hostages home.
In a statement, the Siegel family shared their profound emotions, stating, “At this moment, our father is stepping on Israeli soil, and we are experiencing indescribable emotions. Finally, we can breathe after 484 long, frightening nights filled with tremendous worry for our father.” They praised the governments for executing what they described as a “blessed deal” that focuses on human life and aligns with Jewish and Israeli values.
The family also pointed out the brutal nature of their father’s kidnapping, adding, “Our father was brutally kidnapped from this land, and today he returns to us. As citizens, we must ensure that all hostages return to their families for rehabilitation and that those murdered receive proper burial in this land.”
Further expressing their appreciation, the Siegel family extended their gratitude to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and security forces for their sacrifices. They also sent condolences to families who had lost loved ones in the ongoing conflict, stating, “We send our condolences to the bereaved families who lost their most precious ones for all of us. You are forever in our hearts. Only together will we succeed in bringing everyone home.”
The return of Siegel was part of a broader exchange that included other hostages. Israel’s President, Isaac Herzog, also expressed relief following the return of three hostages—Yarden Bibas, Ofer Kalderon, and Keith Siegel—who were held captive in Gaza. Herzog shared his sentiments on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Yarden Bibas, Ofer Kalderon, and Keith Siegel are finally home. How we have worried and awaited their return.”
President Herzog further emphasized the importance of bringing the remaining hostages home, particularly those still held captive. He referenced the reunion of Yarden Bibas with his family, saying, “Yarden’s reunion with his family is simply heartbreaking.” Herzog also spoke about Ofer Kalderon’s children, Erez and Sahar, who were reunited with their mother during the first exchange and the significance of their Bar Mitzvah, which occurred while their father was still in captivity.
Herzog also acknowledged the tireless efforts of Siegel’s wife, Aviva, whose advocacy for her husband’s return had been unwavering. He praised her for speaking out around the world and working relentlessly to secure Keith’s freedom.
Reaffirming Israel’s commitment to securing the release of all remaining hostages, President Herzog vowed, “We will not rest nor be silent until we return all our sisters and brothers from the hell of captivity in Gaza – until the last one.”
The heartfelt statements from the Siegel family and President Herzog underscore the enduring emotional toll of the hostage crisis, as well as the continued efforts to bring those still captive back home.
Sources By Agencies
