Survivor Calls for Hamas Demilitarization and Release of Hostages

A former hostage, Keith Siegel, shared his experiences and joined hundreds in Central Park to demand a ceasefire and the freeing of remaining captives held by Hamas. Siegel, who was released after 484 days of captivity, advocates for Hamas to be disarmed and stripped of power in Gaza, emphasizing that the terrorist organization must be eliminated to ensure regional peace.

Siegel expressed hope that President Trump’s peace plan could facilitate the return of the 48 hostages still suffering under Hamas’s control. “This fanatic terror organization must be stripped, as they threaten everyone’s safety,” he stated, recalling the brutal conditions he endured and witnessing inhumane treatment of others during his ordeal.

Keith Siegel, a captivity survivor, addresses a crowd of protestors in Central Park, holding signs with hostages' images. — Siegel, who survived 484 days in Hamas captivity, emphasized that Hamas cannot persist if peace is to be achieved in the Middle East.

Siegel expressed concern over missing captives, warning that they are in imminent danger. His hope is that Trump’s diplomatic efforts will succeed, as with his previous cease-fire, to bring the hostages home. He also highlighted the brutal violence inflicted on civilians, including his own experiences of witnessing inhumane acts and violence during Hamas’s attack that killed over 1,200 people.

Hamas fighters escorting a hostage. — Siegel recounted the inhumane treatment he witnessed during his captivity, including abuse and torture inflicted by Hamas.

Many participants, including Siegel and others, remain cautiously hopeful despite the lengthy wait. Siegel reflects on past disappointments but continues to hope for a peaceful resolution. Other families, like Nadav Rudaeff, who lost his father during the attack, echoed the urgent need for an end to the conflict and the return of all hostages after over two years in Hamas’s custody.

Iair Horn and his brother Amos holding signs calling to bring Eitan home. — Iair Horn, brother of hostage Eitan, pleaded for his sibling’s release, emphasizing the importance of bringing him home.

Rudaeff, mourning the loss of his father and hoping for justice, shared his trauma and fears for the remaining hostages. He expressed skepticism after nearly two years waiting for peace but remains hopeful that diplomatic efforts will succeed. The ongoing rallies continue weekly to pressure for immediate action and the safe return of all captives, underlining the persistent pain and hope of those affected.