Hamas Propaganda Video Reveals Hostage Liri Albag's Plea for Help

In a newly released video, Hamas has revealed a sign of life from Liri Albag, a 19-year-old Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) observer who was kidnapped during the October 7, 2023 terrorist attacks in Nahal Oz. The video, which is part of Hamas' psychological warfare strategy, shows Albag stating that she has been held captive in the Gaza Strip for 450 days.

"I'm only 19 years old. I have my entire life in front of me, but now my entire life has been put on pause," Albag tearfully explains in the video. "We're starting a really dark year here... The world is starting to forget about us. No one cares about us. We're living in a nightmare."

The young hostage directly addresses the Israeli government in the video, asking, "If there was someone from your family here, would they still be here today?" She describes the horrific conditions of being in Gaza, under constant bombardment, with no shelter for protection. "This is not normal," she says.

Albag's family, in a statement released by the Hostages Families Forum, expressed their deep distress after watching the video. "Today's video has torn our hearts to pieces. This is not the daughter and sister we know. She is not well - her severe psychological distress is evident," they said. They appealed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and international leaders to act urgently in securing her release.

"We appeal to the Prime Minister, world leaders, and all decision-makers: It's time to make decisions as if your own children were there! Liri is alive and must return alive! This depends only on you!" the family urged, highlighting the importance of bringing all hostages back home safely.

The Hostages Families Forum is calling for immediate action, especially with the deadline set by President-elect Trump looming. The group emphasizes the urgency of securing a deal to release the hostages, warning that each day in Hamas' captivity poses an increased risk of harm.

Liri's parents, Shira and Eli Albag, also made public statements, pledging to continue fighting for their daughter’s release. "We aren't giving up on you. You're coming home alive," said Liri's mother, Shira, while her father, Eli, reassured their daughter that all families are united in their fight to bring the hostages home.

The Hostages Families Forum is organizing global rallies and vigils to show solidarity with the hostages and their families. The international community is urged to stand together in the effort to pressure leaders into negotiating a resolution that will bring Liri and all hostages home.

Liri’s heartbreaking plea for help has sparked global attention and calls for action to end her suffering and secure the safe return of all captives.