Hostage killed by Hamas after nearly 300 days in captivity
- Two years have passed since Hamas's attack on Israel, with ongoing negotiations for hostages.
- A rally in New York showcased families' hope for returning hostages as well as their grief.
- Many advocates believe a solution is essential for the well-being of families affected by ongoing captivity.
The continued conflict in the Middle East has left many individuals and families in despair as hostages remain in captivity. On October 7, 2025, a significant date in the conflict, marked two years since Hamas attacked Israel, sparking ongoing talks around the release of hostages in Gaza. In Central Park, New Yorkers rallied to express hope for the hostages' return as negotiations between Israel and Hamas were underway. Survivor testimonies highlighted the emotional torment faced by families, with Keith Siegel advocating tirelessly for the release of those still held. Meanwhile, some families, like that of Hersh Goldberg-Polin, endured heartbreak as they campaigned for the return of their loved ones. Hersh, an Israeli-American, had been held captive by Hamas since the attack but tragically met his end in August 2024, exacerbating the fears of other families about the fate of the remaining 42 hostages who survived for an extended period before being killed. As the world focused on impending peace negotiations, many like Rachel Goldberg-Polin, Hersh's mother, continued to raise their voices for hope amidst overwhelming suffering.