Cunio Brothers Share Emotional First Message After Gaza Release

Brothers David and Ariel Cunio, recently released hostages from Kibbutz Nir Oz, delivered their first public message today from the hospital, expressing profound gratitude to the Israeli nation and vowing to continue the fight for those still held captive.

The brothers, who were held by terror organizations in Gaza for nearly two years, opened the video with a playful gesture: jumping into the frame and shouting "Boo!", a direct reference to the viral clip of their emotional reunion with their partners at the Re’im military base upon their release.

"Both of us came out of the darkness and into the light a few days ago," opened Ariel Cunio, the younger brother, sporting a noticeable new haircut. David, who maintained the familiar quiff he had when he was abducted, spoke next, focusing on the national effort.

"We know how hard you fought for us to come home, and we want to thank every single one of you who left your homes in all types of weather," David said, addressing the Israeli public. "In the most difficult moments there, we felt you fighting for us, that you weren't giving up."

David shared a deeply personal relief:

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but my dream has come true: I get to read stories to Emma and Yuli every night before bed. I get to hug the love of my life, Sharon, again."

The brothers specifically thanked their parents, siblings, and their partners, Sharon Cunio and Arbel Yehoud, who were themselves held captive in Gaza and fought tirelessly for the men’s release.

“Today, we are returning home, and we are very excited," the brothers stated. "We are just waiting to finally return to life and make up for all the lost time."

They extended their thanks to the Israeli military and security forces, and offered condolences to "the families who paid an unbearable price in this war," adding, "We love all of you, we will not forget you. You are our heroes."

The Struggle Continues

The emotional message concluded with a strong call to action, emphasizing that the mission is not over.

"The struggle is not yet finished," they stressed. "We have more brothers, some from Nir Oz, our community, whom we must bring back to a burial in Israel. We must not stop until the final hostage is returned to us."

Ariel Cunio was abducted with his partner, Arbel Yehoud, from their safe room in Nir Oz. Arbel was released after 482 days in captivity. David Cunio was kidnapped with his wife, Sharon Aloni-Cunio, and their twin daughters, Emma and Yuli, who were three years old at the time. Sharon and the girls were released after 52 days in captivity.

Family members revealed that Ariel was held alone throughout his entire captivity. David was held with other hostages, including Nimrod Cohen and Eitan Horn, and also spent time with fellow survivor Yarden Bibas.

David Cunio is expected to be released today from the hospital to a new home his wife, Sharon, established in Yavne.