The Hostages and Missing Families Forum Headquarters on Wednesday highlighted three birthdays of Israelis still being held captive in Gaza after being abducted during the Hamas-led massacre in southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
Twin brothers Gali and Ziv Berman, kidnapped from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, marked their 28th birthday.
Their family lamented a “second birthday in hell” in a message shared by the Forum.
Another year has passed since Gali and Ziv’s last birthday, and they are still not home with us.
— Bring Them Home Now (@bringhomenow) September 10, 2025
Once again, we won’t get to hug them and sing 'Happy Birthday to You.'
Our wish is that by their next birthday, we’ll be able to celebrate properly, with Gali and Ziv here at home.… pic.twitter.com/0uqkF17YLp
“Our beloved Gali and Ziv, how we feared this day would come—a second birthday in hell. You are 28 years old today, though we’re not sure you even know it.
“We watch videos from past birthdays, from the normal world, and our hearts break. You were surrounded by your closest friends, celebrating in your vibrant neighborhood, drawing everyone to you like magnets. Eating, drinking, being carefree. You have lost your freedom and control over your own lives.
“We imagine that you have been reunited, that you are embracing each other, encouraging and strengthening one another. We know you don’t understand how you can still be there, or when you will be free again.
“We promise you this will happen—you will return to the safe embrace of your mother. Hold on just a little longer, survive, and dream of a happy ending.
“We are calling out: Enough! End this endless war that exacts such a heavy price in hostages and soldiers.
“Bring back our Gali and Ziv—there will be no other true victory. Gali and Ziv embraced in their mother’s arms, and the return of all 48 hostages—the living to their families’ embrace and the deceased to proper burial.”
Yosef Haim Ohana, 25, abducted from the Nova music festival, was also remembered with a message from his father highlighting his courage and faith in captivity.
Today, Yosef Haim Ohana Marks His 25th Birthday.
— Bring Them Home Now (@bringhomenow) September 10, 2025
Yosef Haim’s father, Avi Ohana, shared the following message:
“Yosef Haim was kidnapped from the Nova music festival on Saturday, October 7, 2023, the day Hamas launched its murderous terror attack. That morning, Yosef celebrated… pic.twitter.com/NDmTUkThmO
“Yosef Haim was kidnapped from the Nova music festival on Saturday, October 7, 2023, the day Hamas launched its murderous terror attack. That morning, Yosef celebrated with his friends. When the gunfire and chaos began, he had a chance to escape. Instead, he chose to stay, to tend to the wounded, to help others, and to show rare courage.
“Shortly after, he was captured by terrorists and taken into Gaza. Since then, for 705 days, he has been held in captivity deep inside the tunnels of Gaza.
“Yosef was born into a religious family and has two brothers. Another brother passed away twelve years ago, a loss that left a deep scar on the family.
“In one of the most chilling moments, we saw two videos released by Hamas showing Yosef Haim. Despite the harsh conditions, we saw a strong young man who never lost the values he was raised on: compassion, devotion, faith, and love of others. We heard from a returned hostage that what keeps Yosef alive in that hell is his faith. And it is also faith that keeps us going. Our prayers strengthen us and give us hope.
“On the 10th of Elul (Jewish calendar) Yosef Haim marks his 25th birthday. A beloved son, a dear friend, our brave soul. After 705 days in captivity, our hearts remain with you every moment. You are a symbol of light, hope, and faith. On your 25th birthday, we gather not to celebrate, but to remember, to pray, and to amplify your voice until you come home. Let us surround Yosef with love, with faith, and demand: bring them all home now.”
