As four female IDF observers returned home Saturday from Hamas captivity, 20-year-old Agam Berger remained behind, known to fellow hostages as "the mysterious braider" of Gaza.
Berger, captured from Nahal Oz base on October 7, has transformed her captivity into a symbol of resistance through simple acts of compassion. Her signature braids, carefully woven into the hair of those about to be released, have become powerful messages of hope reaching beyond Gaza's confines.
"Agam braided the hair of girls she knew were being released, even though she had to stay behind," her mother Merav revealed to Israel Hayom. These intricate braids emerged as a pattern when November's released hostages arrived with similarly styled hair, sparking curiosity about their origin.
Despite harsh conditions in tunnels and safe houses, Berger has maintained unwavering spiritual strength. Former captives report her refusing to cook on Shabbat despite pressure from captors, and continuing to pray and bless food. "She kept strong, maintained her faith, and was the silent support for others," a family member told Hidabroot.
While her companions - Liri Albag, Daniella Gilboa, Karina Ariev, and Naama Levy - have now returned home, Berger's expected release is scheduled for next week. Her story, told through the braids she weaves, has become a testament to resilience under captivity.
As Chen Goldstein-Almog, a freed hostage, reflected, "Perhaps somebody in Gaza, in an attempt to signal the world, was braiding the hair of those getting released" - a quiet reminder that hope persists even in darkness.
Jpost contributed to this article.
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