Today (Tuesday), President Isaac Herzog and Hostage and Missing Persons Manager, Gal Hirsch, held a meeting at the President’s Residence with Hostage and Missing Persons Administrators from the U.S., Canada, Germany, Austria, and the U.K.
“The Absolute Top Priority”
At the start of the meeting, President Herzog highlighted the centrality of the issue of hostages and missing persons in Israel’s national and international discourse. “The issue of the hostages is the most important, the most painful, and the most urgent matter in our national life. There is nothing more important than bringing them home,” the president said, emphasizing the many challenges and intense efforts currently underway, including difficult and persistent negotiations: “We must support, pray, cry out, and act in every way we can to achieve our goal.”
The delegation which arrived in Israel is focused on advancing global solutions to the issue of hostages and missing persons, and expressed support and solidarity with Israel’s efforts to secure the rapid release of the hostages.
A Shame for Humanity
The president also spoke about the depth of the pain and trauma this issue is having on Israeli citizens: “The pain is immense, the suffering is unbearable. It’s been an excruciating 459 days of captivity. There is no deeper wound within the Israeli nation’s soul, and no greater shame for humanity.”
The international delegation expressed their commitment to assist and support Israel’s efforts in the global arena, and praised the ongoing efforts to bring the hostages back home.
Watch the President’s Meeting with the Delegation:
Herzog Speaks About the Urgency of a Hostage Deal
