Agam Berger, a 20-year-old Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) soldier, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023. After 482 days in captivity, she was released to the Red Cross as part of a ceasefire deal. Her braids for fellow hostages symbolized resilience and hope.
Agam Berger, a 20-year-old Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) surveillance soldier, was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023, along with six others from the Nahal Oz base near the Gaza border. This brutal act of terrorism left the Israeli community in shock and raised concerns for the safety of the hostages.
Berger’s story is one of quiet strength and resilience. Despite being held in inhumane conditions for extended periods, she managed to maintain her faith and support her fellow captives. One of the most poignant aspects of her captivity was the braids she made for the other hostages. These braids became a symbol of humanity and empowerment, as described by former hostage Chen Goldstein-Almog: “It suddenly became something very human, warm, and empowering for women, for that bit of humanity where you want to feel like a person again and feel… normal in the midst of something so abnormal.”
The braids not only provided a sense of normalcy but also served as a silent farewell, a way of holding onto hope. As hairstylist Romi Gonen noted, “Now they can decide for themselves whether to get a haircut, keep braiding their hair, or let it flow freely. The main thing is that they choose.”
Berger’s perseverance is rooted in her strong religious Jewish values. She reportedly refused to cook on Shabbat for her captors, praying and blessing the food instead. Her calm demeanor and faith were a source of strength for the other hostages, who have spoken highly of her silent support.
The Berger family has been traumatized by her long captivity. Her parents, Merav and Shlomi, have been working tirelessly for her release. Despite the challenges they faced, they remained cautiously optimistic about the future, as Agam’s mother Merav said, “Agam always knew how to give to others. Even now, she shows strength in what she is doing.”
On January 30, 2025, Agam Berger was finally released to the Red Cross in Jabalia, northern Gaza, as part of a ceasefire and hostage release deal. Her release brings relief to her family and the Israeli community, who have been waiting for this moment for over a year.
Q1: What happened to Agam Berger?
A1: Agam Berger was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7, 2023, and held captive for 482 days.
Q2: What did Agam Berger do during her captivity?
A2: She made braids for the other hostages, which became a symbol of hope and humanity.
Q3: How did the braids affect the other hostages?
A3: The braids provided a sense of normalcy and empowerment, making the captives feel more human in inhumane conditions.
Q4: What are Agam Berger’s strong religious values?
A4: She adheres to strong Jewish values, including refusing to cook on Shabbat and praying over food.
Q5: What is the current status of Agam Berger?
A5: She was released to the Red Cross on January 30, 2025, as part of a ceasefire and hostage release deal.
Agam Berger’s story is a testament to the power of resilience and faith. Despite being held captive for over a year, she maintained her strength and supported her fellow captives through simple acts like braiding their hair. Her release brings relief to her family and the Israeli community, symbolizing hope and humanity in the face of adversity.
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