From Captivity to Freedom

Who is freed Hamas hostage Naama Levy?

Through darkened days, Naama Levy's spirit stayed bright; now freedom's dawn breaks after Hamas' night.

JAN 25, 2025 16:29

2 min read

Naama Levy, released Saturday from Hamas captivity, walked to freedom through her own strength - a testament to the spirit that defined her before October 7.

The 20-year-old IDF observer from Raanana was serving at Nahal Oz base when Hamas attacked. Initial footage showed her in bloodied sweatpants being taken to Gaza, sparking international concern.

Before her capture, Levy devoted herself to peace work, volunteering with the United Nations and Red Cross while actively participating in Hands of Peace to promote Israeli-Palestinian dialogue. Her commitment to coexistence was evident even in captivity, where she reportedly told her captors "I have friends in Palestine."

An accomplished triathlete, Levy regularly competed in endurance events, with training partners describing her as "determined and focused." This athletic discipline complemented her military service as an IDF observer at Nahal Oz, where she served alongside other female observers in the surveillance unit monitoring the Gaza border.

Released hostages reported she sustained injuries during captivity but maintained her spirit. Her family describes her as "quiet yet full of light, joy, strength and determination."

Upon release, she was reunited with fellow freed observers Karina Ariev, Liri Albag, and Daniella Gilboa. Her family's statement emphasized continued solidarity with families awaiting their loved ones' return, specifically mentioning Agam Berger and civilian Arbel Yehud.

The Jerusalem Post's editor-in-chief highlighted how Levy's journey - from peace advocate to hostage to survivor - embodies resilience amid conflict, particularly given her pre-capture dedication to coexistence work.

Her family concluded: "We will not rest until the last hostage returns," reflecting the ongoing nature of the hostage crisis despite Saturday's releases.

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