In an open letter to President-elect Donald Trump, Ofri Bibas Levy makes a heartfelt plea for the return of her family members, held hostage by Hamas for over a year. Levy's brother Yarden, his wife Shiri, and their two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, were captured during the October 7, 2023 attacks. The family's plight, particularly the image of the young boys being carried away, has resonated globally. Levy highlights the agonizing uncertainty surrounding their well-being, underscored by a Hamas propaganda video falsely claiming the death of Shiri and her children.

The Bibas family: A snapshot of life before captivity. (Ofri Bibas Levy)

Levy emphasizes the urgency of the situation, citing intelligence confirming that over half of the approximately 100 hostages are still alive. She underscores the violation of international children's rights, particularly as young Ariel marked his fifth birthday in captivity and Kfir approaches his second. Levy implores Trump to leverage his influence and secure their release, highlighting the moral imperative and the importance of hostage return for regional stability.

A cherished memory: Kfir with his aunt, Ofri Bibas Levy.

With ongoing negotiations for a potential deal, Levy stresses the need for swift action. She calls upon Trump to prioritize the hostages' return as a prerequisite for peace, allowing the living to receive necessary care and the deceased to be properly laid to rest. Levy's plea concludes with a direct appeal to Trump, urging him to ensure that Ariel and Kfir can celebrate their next birthdays at home, emphasizing that their safe return is both a right and a shared responsibility.

Kfir Bibas at nine months old, before his capture. (Courtesy: Bring Them Home Now)