Title: Families of Kidnapped and Missing People Demand Return in Emotional Protest
Subtitle: Civil organization sees an increase in support as families unite to bring loved ones back home
15/10/23
In an emotionally charged demonstration that started with a single individual, Avichai Brodetz, demanding the return of his kidnapped family members, hundreds of people have joined the protest in support. The movement has gained momentum as more families of kidnapped and missing people have joined the cause, urging the government and the world to bring their loved ones back to Israel.
Brodetz’s protest, which began with a sign and a plastic chair at the Government Kiryat in Tel Aviv, quickly gained traction as crowds flocked to show their support. The protest has now spread to the Sharona complex, with families of the abducted and missing presenting photos of their loved ones, demanding their immediate release from the Gaza Strip.
Among those who have joined the protest is Mai Asraf, who shared her heart-wrenching story. Last Saturday, members of Asraf’s family were kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz and taken to the Gaza Strip. The attack on her kibbutz devastated her life as her grandmother, uncle Ravid Katz, aunt Doron Katz, and artist Efrat Katz went missing. Asraf managed to speak to Doron that morning before communication was abruptly cut off upon terrorists entering their house. Hours later, a Hamas video emerged showing Doron, her mother, and her two young daughters being led into the Gaza Strip. Since then, there has been no news or communication from them.
“My whole family: my uncle, my aunt, her mother, my little cousins. My whole family, all of them, disappeared,” a tearful Asraf shared. “We are pleading for external intervention. I am a paramedic by profession, and I have spent my life fighting for people’s lives, including terrorists.”
Asraf’s appeal goes beyond the government, as she reaches out to the world in her desperate plea for help. Nir Oz, her home where she grew up and was educated, is now shattered. There is nothing left for her there – no clothes, no property, and no money. She implores the world to bring back their loved ones, especially the young girls who are trapped with their mother and grandmother in the Gaza Strip. With each passing day, optimism diminishes.
“We need global intervention,” Asraf stressed. “I am not angry, I just want us to focus on our goal and succeed in bringing the abductees home.”
The civil organization formed by the families of the captives and missing people is gaining strength and support. Their united front aims to raise awareness and highlight the urgency of the situation in order to secure the safe return of their loved ones.
The families’ plea for intervention resonates not only with the government but also with the international community. It is a cry for justice, hope, and the restoration of lives shattered by the unspeakable trauma of having their family members ripped away from them.
As the families continue their protest, their resilience and determination are admirable. The world watches as they unite, demanding action, and praying for a positive outcome. The return of the captives and missing individuals is not only a crucial demand for the families but a beacon of hope for a nation longing for their safe return.
Note: The content provided has been edited and adapted for use as a news article.