Twin brothers Ziv and Gali Berman, 28‑year‑old Israeli light‑techs abducted on 7 October 2023, were reunited with Israeli forces after more than two years of captivity during a high‑profile swap on 13 October 2024.
Abducted During Oct 7 Attack
Ziv and Gali Berman were taken from their home in Kibbutz Kefar Azza on 7 October 2023 during the Hamas attack that killed 11 of 37 residents. Their abduction was part of a coordinated operation in which about 1200 Israelis were killed and 251 hostages were seized.
Life Before Captivity
Prior to the attack, the twins worked together as lighting technicians and were known for their dedication to family, often adjusting work schedules to care for a relative suffering from Parkinson’s disease and dementia. Their mother, Talia Berman, described Ziv as a “humorous, stylish guy” who never missed a joke despite hard work, and Gali as “charming, determined, and skilled at fixing anything.”
Two‑Year Ordeal
For more than two years the brothers were held by Hamas, often separated and injured. In February, the family received confirmation that both were still alive, a relief after rumors of their fate had persisted for months.
Release and Reunion
On Monday 13 October, after a cease‑fire and prisoner‑exchange operation, Israeli forces recovered the twins. The former hostage Keith Siegel reported that the brothers had endured severe hardships, and the reunion sparked intense emotions as they embraced each other in front of the Israeli military.
Broader Context: Gaza Conflict and International Diplomacy
The hostage release coincided with a diplomatic flare‑up in Egypt, where leaders of the United States, Egypt, Turkey and Qatar signed a declaration of support for peace in Gaza. In Sharm el Sheikh, 20 countries’ leaders met; U.S. President Donald Trump proclaimed that “the war in Gaza has ended.” However, the document merely outlines a framework of guarantees from the four countries, and Palestinian casualties remain high, with over 67,000 killed since the initial invasion.
