Key Takeaways

• Families of hostages taken during Hamas’ October 7 attack are still waiting for their return.
• Ruby Chen, father of a missing Israeli soldier, speaks out for peace and closure.
• Citizens in both Israel and Gaza are calling for an end to the ongoing conflict.
• National ceremonies now focus on pain, hope, and unity rather than just remembrance.

Hostage Crisis Still Defines the Conflict

Two years after Hamas launched a tragic attack on Israel on October 7, 2022, pain and suffering continue across the region. The event triggered one of the region’s most devastating wars in recent memory. Yet, even after years of fighting, peace seems far away. One heartbreaking piece of this story involves the hostages — many of whom are still not home.

Among the voices rising above the noise is that of Ruby Chen. He is the father of Itay Chen, an Israeli soldier kidnapped during the attack. This week, Ruby stood in front of thousands at a national ceremony in Tel Aviv. His message was clear: it’s time for peace, and it’s time to bring the hostages back.

Families Plead for Closure, Not Just Justice

It’s hard to imagine the pain of not knowing where a loved one is or whether they’re even alive. For hostage families like the Chens, every day feels endless. Speaking to the public and policymakers, Ruby Chen expressed the emotional toll of waiting.

“We need answers,” he said with a trembling voice. “We need them home.”

With every passing day, the families say their hope is tested. They’re not calling for revenge. Instead, they ask leaders to do whatever it takes to secure the hostages’ safe release and find a peaceful solution to the ongoing war.

A New Kind of War Looks for a New Kind of Ending

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has caused deep suffering on both sides. Thousands have lost their lives. Entire neighborhoods in Gaza have been destroyed. Israeli towns on the border still live in fear.

But here’s the twist — this time, many people in both Israel and Gaza are uniting around a different goal: peace. They’re tired of war. Civilians from both sides have begun organizing peaceful protests. Their message? Enough is enough.

For many, the demand is not only about the end of fighting. It’s also about building a better future — one free from hatred and revenge.

Public Support for Peace Is Rising

Recent polls show a new shift in public opinion across the region. Support for talks, even with long-time enemies, is growing quickly. People no longer believe that violence will solve anything.

In Israel, peace protests have been sparked by the hostage crisis. Protesters wave signs saying “Bring them home” at every major speech or gathering. It’s not only the families who want answers now — it’s the entire country.

Meanwhile, in Gaza, people gather quietly to mourn lost loved ones and call for an end to the bombings. Risking their lives even to speak, they too hope for an exit from this endless war.

Ceremonies Honor Both Loss and Hope

This year’s national ceremony in Tel Aviv wasn’t just about looking back at the horror of October 7. It was also about looking forward — to a day when no more lives are lost.

Featured at the ceremony were photos of hostages like Itay Chen. A moment of silence honored both victims and survivors. And emotional speeches came not just from politicians but from parents, siblings, and friends.

Ruby Chen’s moving words reminded everyone that behind every hostage is a family that still waits.

“These men and women are more than photos,” he said. “They are voices, hearts, and lives. Let’s not forget that.”

Hamas’ Silence Fuels Desperation

While families continue pleading, Hamas leaders remain mostly silent on the hostage situation. Some information has come out through unofficial sources — a few escapees, letters home, or intercepted communication.

But the full picture remains blurry. This silence only adds to the mental and emotional toll on families like the Chens. They’ve gone two entire years without knowing if their sons or daughters are safe, injured, or even alive.

Each piece of silence feels like a weight pressing down on their hopes.

Diplomatic Talks Struggle to Gain Ground

International efforts to negotiate peace and return hostages have made small progress but not much more. Leaders from countries like Egypt, Qatar, and the United States are involved, but big steps forward are rare.

A major roadblock? Neither Israel nor Hamas wants to look weak. This stubbornness keeps meaningful talks on hold, even as bodies continue to fall and families keep grieving.

Still, the rising voices of ordinary people — like Ruby Chen and other parents — may be the secret weapon to finally break the deadlock.

Can People-Driven Action End the Hostage Crisis?

With faith in politics fading fast, some believe real answers may come from grassroots pressure. Social media has become a powerful platform to amplify calls for peace.

Videos, open letters, and campaigns created by young people especially have caught fire online. Their influence is not going unnoticed by governments.

These movements ask a big question: If people on both sides want peace, why should politicians stop them?

Ruby Chen believes this energy could finally move leaders to act. “It’s time we change what war looks like — from hate to hope,” he said.

Hope Carries On, Even in Uncertain Times

Two years have passed. Countless lives have changed forever. But through the noise, the pain, and the heartbreak, a new message is rising from the ashes. People from all walks of life — soldiers, students, parents, teachers — are calling for peace.

This conflict may have started with terror and tragedy. But maybe, just maybe, it could end with compassion and courage. We just need to listen to voices like Ruby Chen and all the others pleading for one thing: peace.

Let’s not look away. The hostages are still out there. And their families are still waiting.

FAQs

Why is Ruby Chen speaking out now?

Ruby Chen is speaking out because it’s been two years since his son was taken by Hamas, and there’s still no closure. He wants peace and the return of all hostages.

How many hostages are still in captivity?

The exact number is unclear. Some have been released or confirmed dead, but many families still don’t know the fate of their loved ones.

Are people in Gaza also calling for peace?

Yes. Many civilians in Gaza are also tired of war. They want safety, peace, and a better future, just like those in Israel.

Is the hostage crisis affecting peace talks?

Yes, heavily. The hostages remain a central issue, and it’s one of the reasons talks haven’t moved forward. Families hope constant public pressure will help push leaders into action.