Noa’s Return: A Symbol of Freedom from the October 7 Attacks

The haunting face of Noa Argamani, marked by fear and despair, had stuck in everyone’s minds. He was one of the 120 hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip, until his release on Saturday along with three others captured during a major military operation by the Israeli army. His kidnapping on a motorcycle by terrorists during an attack on October 7 had shocked the world.

Noa, a student at Ben-Gurion University, attended the Nova Music Festival with her boyfriend before being abducted by Hamas terrorists. The festival turned into a nightmare when the terrorists attacked, killing many people and taking hostages, including Noa. Her father, Yaakov, was devastated when he saw the images of her abduction, as she had not informed him about her plans to attend the festival.

After 245 days in captivity, Noa was finally reunited with her father upon her release. She was in good health and spirits, much to her father’s relief. However, her mother, who has been battling brain cancer, was unable to see her daughter upon her return. Noa’s boyfriend, who is also a hostage in Gaza, remains in captivity along with many others.

Despite her freedom, Noa’s thoughts are still with those who are still detained in Gaza. She has a heavy heart knowing that her boyfriend is still in captivity, along with 116 other hostages. The Israeli army confirmed that 41 hostages died during their time in Hamas custody.