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The essence of celebrating the Fourth of July forever changed for me during the American bicentennial in 1976. As a child in New York City, my parents eagerly woke my sisters and me early to witness the breathtaking Parade of Tall Ships entering the Hudson River. This display embodied the strength of the United States, instilling in me a deep sense of security. I understood, even as a young child, that my country would tirelessly safeguard my family and all its citizens.
This year’s Fourth of July presents a strikingly different reality for many Americans. While countless families gather to celebrate with baseball, hot dogs, and ice cream, my family stands apart. My son, Itay, and 49 others remain hostages of Hamas, losing their freedom day after day. As families like mine grapple with the grim absence of our loved ones, we are reminded of the stark contrast this holiday represents. While others enjoy independence, we are consumed with worry and despair.
Recognizing the Ongoing Hostage Crisis
On this patriotic day, as fireworks illuminate the skies, we must look beyond the festivities. The Fourth of July symbolizes our hard-won freedom and serves as a reminder that any threat to an American’s freedom, including the taking of hostages, is ultimately a threat to us all. It is unacceptable for any group to hold U.S. citizens in captivity without severe repercussions. Until Hamas releases its captives, we allow evil and terrorism to triumph.
A Father’s Heartbreak
Itay, now 19, was taken hostage at a vibrant time in his life. On this Independence Day, he cannot watch Mets games with his brothers, engage in friendly rivalry during neighborhood baseball games, or check in with me at the grill, asking about dinner. The echo of his absence is profound.
This Fourth of July, my family will again awaken to the same haunting reality. Each moment is laced with the agonizing question: Where is my son? What can we do to bring him home?
The Unbearable Burden of Uncertainty
As parents, we experience overwhelming panic when our child goes missing, even for a fleeting moment. The fear escalates dramatically when that absence becomes a kidnapping by terrorists. The singular thought consuming us is the urgent need to recover our child, no matter their condition. Until we can hold Itay again, the future remains indefinitely suspended, making it impossible to heal our emotional wounds.
Time for Action
We must draw upon the momentous victories against Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas while advocating for the immediate return of hostages. Now is the time to embrace President Trump’s approach of ‘Peace Through Strength.’ Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should unite with the U.S. to secure the release of hostages. Recently, New Jersey resident Edan Alexander returned home successfully due to U.S. intervention, highlighting the potential for cooperation in this critical endeavor.
A Diplomatic Initiative for Hostage Release
President Trump has an incredible opportunity to forge what he terms the ‘Big Beautiful Deal.’ This comprehensive diplomatic initiative could curtail hostilities in both Iran and Gaza while ensuring the safe return of all 50 hostages in Gaza, including my son. Stabilizing the Middle East through careful negotiation could indeed be attainable.
President Trump’s previous administration delivered pivotal accomplishments like the Abraham Accords, achieving normalization between Israel and several Arab nations. The proposed Big Beautiful Deal could extend this precedent, fostering regional peace and furthering U.S. interests in a tumultuous area.
America’s Commitment to Freedom
As we highlight the values of freedom and human dignity celebrated on the Fourth of July, we must remember the struggles endured to achieve them. The juxtaposition of our democratic ideals against the backdrop of terror should not be overlooked. Our national identity hinges on the pursuit of these values.
In recent months, I have had the privilege of meeting with prominent figures, including Vice President JD Vance and FBI Director Kash Patel. They assure us that the ‘America First’ policy prioritizes the release of American hostages, like my son Itay, who remains unlawfully detained. The administration has already been instrumental in the release of 47 Americans, and I remain hopeful that Itay will soon join their ranks.
A Call to Action
This Fourth of July, as we celebrate our independence, we must confront the reality that our freedom faces challenges. The brutal attack on Americans’ freedom on October 7 serves as a stark reminder that many of us still live in a nightmare of captivity. I urge President Trump to leverage his influence to combat terrorism and advocate for the immediate release of the hostages.
As we celebrate our nation’s independence, let us not forget those who are still fighting for theirs. True freedom can only prevail when every American is home.
