Keith Siegel urges new deal to free remaining hostages from Hamas captivity
- Keith Siegel was freed after 16 months held by Hamas, refusing to thank his captors during release.
- His wife, Aviva, also a former captive, praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu while highlighting the plight of remaining hostages.
- Siegel has become a vocal advocate for a new deal to secure the return of all remaining hostages as negotiations continue.
In July 2025, Israeli-American Keith Siegel was liberated after nearly 16 months of being held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. His release occurred at the Israeli Embassy in London during an event that marked 650 days since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack that resulted in the abduction of Siegel and over 250 others. During an interview, he shared that he was demanded to thank his captors during the handover, which he refused as a final act of defiance. He, along with his wife Aviva, who was also taken captive but released earlier, used their platform to advocate for the upcoming release of approximately 50 hostages still unaccounted for. Keith expressed gratitude towards former President Donald Trump and highlighted the need for further agreements to achieve the safe return of all remaining hostages. His comments reflect the ongoing indirect negotiations facilitated by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt to reach a ceasefire and comprehensive hostage deal, demonstrating the urgency of the situation. Additionally, Doron Steinbrecher, a former hostage herself, shared her harrowing story of abduction and captivity, emphasizing the dire need for collective action against Hamas. The situation remains critical, with conversations surrounding the treatment of Palestinians in Gaza as the conflict continues, demonstrating the broader humanitarian concerns in the region.