Gaza Release Deal Must Happen Now, Says Hostage’s Mother

Photo: REUTERS

Ayelet Levy Shachar Declines Netanyahu’s Washington Invite Amid Hostage Crisis

Ayelet Levy Shachar, whose daughter Naama Levy was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7 from an Israeli army observation post near the Gaza border, turned down an invitation to join Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his plane to Washington. Ayelet clarified that her decision was not political, despite being honored by the invitation, but due to the current focus on the hostage situation.

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Naama, who turned 20 while in captivity, is described by her mother as a determined, fun-loving young woman and a good student and athlete. Ayelet remains hopeful as recent updates from defense and security forces suggest a potential breakthrough in negotiations for a deal to secure her release.

“There is optimism that a deal might be within reach,” Ayelet said. “We must remain focused on this issue; it should be our primary concern. I hope our prime minister prioritizes this above all else.”

While some relatives of other hostages traveled with Netanyahu to Washington, the trip was controversial. Advocates for the hostages had been protesting against Netanyahu’s visit, arguing that he should not leave until their loved ones were safely home.

Upon arrival in the US, Netanyahu assured families of the hostages that a deal could be imminent, but emphasized the need for ongoing military pressure on Hamas. “The enemy's spirit is beginning to break,” he stated. “If we stay steadfast, we can achieve a deal.”

The conflict with Hamas, which began after an attack on southern Israel in October, has led to significant casualties. Approximately 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage in the attack, with over 39,000 fatalities reported in Gaza since then.

Netanyahu has faced pressure to agree to a ceasefire deal, which would involve exchanging the remaining 116 hostages—44 of whom are believed to be dead—for Palestinian prisoners. Although Hamas recently dropped its demand for a permanent ceasefire as a precondition, negotiations have stalled over Israeli demands for supervision along the Egyptian border and in Gaza.

Col Lior Lotan, a close advisor to Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, stated that the current terms of the deal are manageable despite inherent risks. He cautioned against the belief that more military pressure could yield better results.

Recent confirmation of two more hostages' deaths underscores the urgency of reaching an agreement. Ayelet described Naama’s arrival at the observation post just two days before the attack and her desperate attempt to find safety. A video later surfaced showing Naama with tied hands and bloodied sweatpants, forced into a jeep.

In an effort to remind the world of their daughters’ plight, families of five female soldiers kidnapped from the observation post released photos from early captivity days. Naama, not among these photos, was reportedly moved frequently by her captors and sustained shrapnel injuries but could walk.

Israeli security forces have confirmed Naama’s "proof of life," though details remain scarce. The latest reports suggest she is held in Hamas tunnels. Netanyahu’s upcoming trip to Doha aims to advance the negotiations, fueling Ayelet’s cautious hope amid her ongoing distress.

“We’re approaching the crucial moment,” Ayelet said. “Even discussing demands feels wrong when it’s about my daughter’s life. It has to happen—this nightmare must end.”

Despite the uncertainty, Ayelet draws strength from her belief in Naama’s resilience. “I wake up every day, counting the minutes,” she said. “I believe in her strength and determination to survive this.”

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