A delegation of released hostages and their families met Wednesday with senior lawmakers from both parties. The meeting took place in Washington, with accompaniment from the Hostages and Missing Families Forum manager in the Prime Minister's Office and from representatives of the Israeli embassy in the US.
During the meeting, lawmakers emphasized their support for the released hostages and their families, and their commitment to continued efforts to return the three remaining deceased hostages from Hamas. Congresswoman Haley Stevens said, "You carry with you a burden, a story, an experience you didn't ask for. We will continue to be your allies and your friends forever – we will continue wearing the pin and telling your story." Congressman Craig Goldman said, "We were with you from the first day – we thought about you, waited for you, prayed for you every evening." He emphasized the memory of those who didn't return home and the significance of meeting with the released captives.
Congressman Brad Schneider addressed the significance of Hanukkah and the aspect of returning from captivity, saying, "Hanukkah is a holiday that brings families together. It's a holiday of light, and I know that for a hostage to come from darkness to light is huge. Your pictures were on our walls and in our hearts, and we continue wearing the yellow ribbon. We're here, both parties, and there wasn't a moment when we weren't all committed to bringing the hostages home." Schneider added, "On a dreidel, there are four letters, here they say 'a great miracle happened there' – but that you're here with us is completely 'a great miracle happened here.'"
Delegation participants thanked the public officials for their support during captivity and for their involvement in contacts to end the fighting and return all the hostages. Family members emphasized the importance of the relationship between Israel and the US and the American administration's contribution to dealing with the security situation.
Danny Miran, father of Omri Miran, noted the significance of uniting Democrats and Republicans in one room. He thanked Congress members and American Jewry for their efforts to return the hostages and mentioned the holiday's proximity as a point of light for the families.
