After enduring 477 days as a captive of Hamas, Naama Levy, one of four female Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers released on Saturday, has shared her first public statement since her liberation.
In an Instagram post, Levy expressed her relief and gratitude, stating, "I’m finally home. I’m safe and protected, surrounded by family and friends, and I am feeling better by the day." She acknowledged the unwavering efforts of Israeli soldiers and citizens who fought for her freedom, adding, "Thank you all. I love you."
Levy was abducted by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023, along with Liri Albag, Daniella Gilboa, Karina Ariev, and Agam Berger. While the first four were released as part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, Berger remains in captivity.
Levy described spending the initial 50 days of her confinement in isolation. However, she was eventually reunited with her fellow captured soldiers, and they provided mutual support throughout their ordeal. She expressed hope for the swift return of Berger and all remaining hostages.
Levy's kidnapping gained widespread attention due to a viral video showing her being forcibly removed from a vehicle, her ankles injured and visibly struggling to walk. This image became symbolic of the plight of hostages and victims of the Hamas attacks.
In a November 2023 essay, Levy’s mother, Ayelet Levy Shachar, expressed her hope that the widely circulated video of her daughter's abduction would not define her daughter's perspective on the world.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum Headquarters welcomed the release of the four women, highlighting it as a beacon of hope while underscoring the critical need to secure the release of the remaining 90 hostages still held in Gaza. The Israel-Hamas war, which began with the devastating surprise attacks of October 7, 2023, continues, with dozens still held captive.
