As a ceasefire deal is anticipated to commence on Sunday, there is hope for the release of hostages, including 84-year-old Oded Lifshitz, who has been held captive by Hamas for 469 days. The London-based artist, Sharone Lifschitz, daughter of Oded, remains cautiously optimistic about her father's fate.
Following the attack on kibbutz Nir Oz on Oct. 7, 2023, where Hamas militants took a quarter of the community's residents hostage, including Oded and his wife Yocheved, the family has endured immense trauma. Oded, a former journalist and advocate for Arab rights, was shot and separated from his wife during the attack.
Despite his efforts for peace and co-existence, Oded was not spared from captivity. His wife, Yocheved, was released after 16 days in captivity, where she endured harsh conditions but also witnessed moments of humanity from her captors.
The ceasefire proposal aims to release 33 hostages in the first phase, with negotiations ongoing for the remaining captives and the bodies of the deceased. The families of the hostages have been vocal in their demands for the release of their loved ones, engaging in protests and international advocacy.
Sharone Lifschitz emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding on both sides of the conflict, highlighting the shared pain experienced by Israelis and Palestinians. She believes that acknowledging and empathizing with each other's suffering is crucial for building a better future.
While the uncertainty of her father's fate lingers, Lifschitz remains resolute, stating, 'We will know.' As the ceasefire brings a glimmer of hope for the hostages' release, the families continue to navigate the complexities of their ordeal, holding onto the belief that compassion and empathy can pave the way for healing and reconciliation.
