Ofer Calderon to Be Released Tomorrow After 483 Days in Captivity - All

His two children, Sahar and Erez, were also captured but were released as part of a ceasefire deal in November 2023, after 52 days in captivity.

Kalderon's story is marked by heartbreak, as his niece, 12-year-old Noya Dan, and her grandmother, Carmela Dan, were among the victims of the October 7 attack. Noya, who was autistic, and her grandmother were reported missing before their bodies were discovered nearly two weeks later. While Ofer’s return will bring some relief to his family, the tragic loss of his niece and mother-in-law remains a heavy burden on the hearts of those waiting for his return.

Ofer’s ex-wife, Hadas, has been an outspoken advocate for the families of the abducted children. She was a prominent voice in the campaign to bring attention to the children taken from Nir Oz, including her own son Erez and daughter Sahar. Sahar, now 17, has described her fear of being killed by Hamas or the Israeli airstrikes during her captivity. Her testimony highlighted the deep trauma experienced by the young hostages.

The news of Ofer’s release is a bittersweet moment for his family. While his children, who were freed last November, will be reunited with their father, the pain of their loss remains overwhelming. Hadas continues to speak out on behalf of the hostages still in captivity, with her family’s experience serving as a poignant reminder of the ongoing suffering caused by the October 7 attacks.

Ofer’s return is expected to offer a glimmer of hope to the many families still waiting for the safe return of their loved ones, even as the fight for justice and accountability continues.