Brother of released hostage Avera Mengistu, Speaks for the first time: "We’ve received new life"

The families of Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed, who were both released from Hamas captivity in Gaza yesterday, made their first public statement today from Ichilov Hospital. Ilan Mengistu, Avera's brother, began his address, saying: "I stand here today, very emotional, trying to find the right words to express my feelings. How can one summarize ten years of worry, uncertainty, and continuous prayer?"

"After a decade of captivity under inhumane conditions, our beloved Avera is finally back home. Words cannot describe what my heart feels. In these moments, we are deeply thankful to God for the miracle that has happened to us. Today, we received a precious gift – we were given new life. Blessed be the reviver of the dead."

"Rehabilitation from captivity is a complex and difficult process"

Ilan Mengistu continued, emphasizing: "Avera's return to us marks the beginning of the healing process for our family, our community, and the wider public. Your return is a moment of hope and joy, a ray of light and comfort amidst the pain and suffering we have all experienced since October 7. Today is a testimony to the power of divine providence and the human spirit. You have returned to us, my brother, and we are endlessly happy. But we are also aware that the road ahead is still long. Rehabilitation from captivity is a complex and difficult process, and it requires time, patience, and support."

Ilan then directed a message to his brother: "We promise you that we will do everything to help you recover, return to life, and find your place again. We are here for you, always."

He also spoke of the other hostages still held in Gaza: "Alongside the joy and hope, we must not forget our brothers and sisters still trapped in Gaza’s tunnels, and the fallen soldiers who remain behind, as their families await the start of their healing process through their return to Israeli soil. I want to address the families of the hostages and the fallen, and say to you: our hearts are with you. Only we can understand the feeling of loss, uncertainty, and longing. There are no words that can comfort you, no words that can ease your suffering. But we are here, by your side, hugging you, and we want to say to you: hold on to hope. You cannot give up."

"We cannot allow this situation to continue"

"And from here, I call and ask the people of Israel: we must not let this situation continue – 'Do not stand idly by while your brother’s blood is shed.' I beg you. Do not let the beautiful images of those returning from captivity deceive you – behind the smile and momentary joy are irreversible physical and mental scars. It is our moral obligation, as a society and a people, to apply moral pressure on the government and decision-makers to immediately act to bring all the hostages back home, to their families, and to their homeland. Now!"