Agam Berger has become the last of the seven female soldiers who were kidnapped from the Nahal Oz military base on October 7, 2023, to be returned to Israel. This follows the rescue of Ori Megidish by the IDF on October 30, 2023, and the tragic death of Noa Marciano, whose body was recovered by the Israeli military on November 17, 2023.
Despite the ceasefire deal in 2023 calling for the release of all women and children held captive, five female soldiers were not initially released due to their status as active duty soldiers. However, four of these soldiers - Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag - were recently freed as part of the second round of hostage releases.
The kidnapping of these women was a harrowing event, with videos showing them lined up against a wall in their pajamas, their hands bound, and their bodies bruised and bloodied. The release of this footage by the women's families in May aimed to pressure the Israeli government to secure a deal for their release.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) acknowledged their failure to defend the personnel at the Nahal Oz base during the attacks. The return of Agam Berger marks a bittersweet moment for Israel, as the nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of this traumatic event.
