Leary Albag and Daniella Guilboa reunited with their families. Photo: IDF Press Office
After 477 long days in Hamas captivity, four Israeli hostages – Liri Albag, Daniela Gilboa, Naama Levy and Karina Ariyev – were reunited with their families. Military representatives and medical specialists accompanied the released girls to provide them with first aid and support, The Jerusalem Post reports .
The family of Liri Albag, a 19-year-old soldier who has become a symbol of resilience, shared their emotions:
“A wave of relief and joy swept over us after 477 days of incredible waiting. Liri has demonstrated superhuman strength and survived the conditions of hell. We are immensely proud of her endurance.”
The moment everyone was waiting for
Leary, who was abducted from the Nahal Oz military base on 7 October 2022, returned to the arms of her parents and brothers. Her father Eli Albag said:
“We will continue to fight until the last hostage returns home. In these moments of joy, our thoughts are also with the families who continue to wait.”
Leary’s friends, gathered at the Tal Dinaments’ home, said:
“We have been waiting for this day for over a year. We just want to hug her, tell her that everything will be fine, and be there for her. Leary is strength, optimism and joy of life. We love her dearly and have been waiting for her every day.”
Karina Ariiev: “We will not rest until everyone returns”
Karina Ariyeva’s family also expressed their joy:
“After 477 days of pain and fear, we finally embraced our Karina. She is a symbol of courage and strength of spirit. We thank everyone who supported us in these difficult times.”
Daniela Gilboa and Naama Levy: “Prayers answered”
Daniela’s family, affectionately known as Nushi by her friends, quoted a prayer:
“Blessed be the Lord who has given us life, sustained us and brought us to this moment.”
For almost a year and a half, these families fought for the return of their daughters and sisters. Although the release brought a wave of joy, they remember those who remain in captivity, including Agam Berger, Arbel Yehuda and the Bibas family.
“Unity and love will prevail. We will continue to fight until every hostage returns home,” said all the families of the released hostages.
