JERUSALEM (AP) — Every year, Alon Gat’s mother led the family’s Passover celebration of the liberation of the ancient Israelites from Egypt thousands of years ago. But this year, Gat is struggling with how to reconcile a holiday commemorating freedom after his mother was slain and other family members abducted when Hamas attacked Israel. Gat’s sister, Carmel, and wife, Yarden Roman-Gat, were taken hostage in the Oct. 7 attack. His wife was freed in November but his sister remains captive. “We can’t celebrate our freedom because we don’t have this freedom. Our brothers and sisters and mothers and fathers are still in captivity and we need to release them,” Gat said. On Monday, Jews around the world will begin celebrating the weeklong Passover holiday, recounting the biblical story of their exodus from Egypt after hundreds of years of slavery. But for many Israelis, it’s hard to fathom a celebration of freedom when friends and family are not free. |
Shotgun attack after Hastings rugby game 'deplorable'Seven injured after twoTransport leader says 10Hamilton Movers won’t return accidental $50k payment to luxury hotel brandPrincess of Wales' cancer diagnosis a wake up callMOTOR RACING/ Carlos Sainz wins F1 Australian GP after Verstappen retires early with engine fireWellington water: Threat of further restrictions recedesAlec Baldwin waved gun around on Rust film set before fatal shooting, court hearsLive: Heavy rain to pummel country's south, orange warnings in placeSydney police officer praised for stopping alleged shopping mall attacker