Hamas released a new video Saturday night showing Israeli hostage Liri Albag, a military observer who was kidnapped from her post at Nahal Oz during the October 7 attack.
Hamas claims the footage was filmed within the past week, though the authenticity of this timeline cannot be verified. Albag's family has not yet authorized the release of the video or its contents.
This isn't the first time Hamas has released footage of Albag. Following November's hostage release deal, her father had confirmed receiving proof of life from his daughter, who was stationed as an observer along with four of her fellow soldiers when she was taken captive.
The video's release has struck a particularly painful chord with Yagil Yaakov, a former hostage who was himself held by Hamas. "It triggered flashbacks," Yaakov shared, his voice heavy with emotion. "I remember standing there, a Kalashnikov pointed at me, terrified and begging to go home. The terrorist telling me what to say, and being completely alone."
Yaakov, who was among those released in earlier exchanges, drew parallels between his experience and Albag's situation. "Liri has been there for over a year now. She's just a girl who joined the army to serve her country, like my brother did. The Albag family - I understand your pain better than most."
Albag was kidnapped along with her fellow observers Karina Ariev, Agam Berger, Daniella Gilboa, and Naama Levy during Hamas's October 7 attack. Their capture occurred in the early morning hours as Jews were celebrating Simchat Torah.
"Liri needs to come home," Yaakov emphasized, his words carrying the weight of personal experience. "We're all with you. Just hold on a little longer, Liri - my father and all the hostages will be home soon."
Albag's family issued an emotional statement today following the release of the new video.
"The video tore our hearts to pieces," the family said through the Hostages and Missing Families Forum. "This is not the daughter and sister we know. Her severe mental distress is clearly visible."
Liri has been held captive in Gaza for 456 days since October 7th. Her family noted the crushing reality that she is being held "just dozens of kilometers away" while they remain unable to secure her freedom.
In a direct appeal to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and other officials, the family demanded more urgent action: "It's time to make decisions as if your own children were there. Liri is alive and must return alive - this depends only on you."
The family emphasized that officials "must not miss the current opportunity" to negotiate the release of all remaining hostages.
The Forum has authorized the release of selected photos of Liri but asked media to respect the family's wishes regarding which images can be published.
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