Liran Berman Urges Immediate Action to Free His Brothers from Hamas Captivity

Liran Berman describes his brothers, Gali and Ziv, as the bright light of every room they enter. These twins were kidnapped from their home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza during the violent attacks orchestrated by Hamas on October 7. Liran states it is fitting they bring light into every room, as both brothers work as lighting technicians.

While many young Israelis migrate to bustling urban centers like Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, Gali and Ziv made a conscious decision to reside in their family’s home in southern Israel. They chose to remain close to their mother to help care for their father, who battles dementia and Parkinson’s disease.

Liran shared the harrowing details, explaining that his brothers were forcefully taken from their beds on a fateful Saturday morning during the holiday weekend. This sudden and traumatic event has left the family in distress.

The Berman twins were abducted together, but their family has learned, through conversations with released hostages, that the brothers were separated shortly after their arrival in Gaza. This separation is not unique to them; Iair Horn, who survived Hamas captivity, also had to leave his brother, Eitan, behind.

“This is the longest they have been separated in their entire lives,” Liran expressed, highlighting the emotional toll on his family. Gali and Ziv were taken alongside Emily Damari, another hostage who regained her freedom during the recent ceasefire. When interviewed, Liran mentioned he had not yet spoken to Emily since her release.

“Gali and Ziv have done nothing wrong to anyone; they are victims of a conflict,” Liran stated emphatically. These words capture the essence of their situation, as civilians caught in the crossfire of ongoing hostilities.

After more than a year in captivity, the Berman family received tentative signs of life from Gali and Ziv. Before this confirmation from freed hostages, Liran stated that his family had steadfastly held onto the belief that his brothers were alive.

“It was a breath of fresh air,” Liran recalled, reflecting on the moment they learned about their brothers’ status. “For over a year, we fought with the belief that they were still alive, which provided us with strength. Now we know they are alive, not just believing in it.”

Liran is hopeful that U.S. President Donald Trump can play a pivotal role in securing the release of his brothers. He expressed gratitude for Trump’s efforts thus far, claiming the former president brought a different atmosphere to negotiations surrounding hostages.

“We hold great respect for what President Trump has managed to accomplish in his short time. We remain hopeful that the current administration will fulfill their promise to see all remaining hostages home, as they promised until the last one is back,” Liran said. His remarks reflect an optimistic view of international negotiations that could ultimately lead to the return of his brothers.

As campus unrest against Israel has become more pronounced in American institutions, Liran expressed a desire for protesting students to identify with his brothers’ plight. He wants them to understand their lives are not vastly different from that of Gali and Ziv, who share similar ages and interests.

“I want them to realize that Gali and Ziv have their whole lives ahead of them,” Liran emphasized. “They are deeply missed by countless people, and their absence resonates throughout our community.”

A Family’s Long Wait for Justice

The Berman family’s ordeal is a reflection of broader struggles faced by many families in conflict zones. The longing and pain experienced during extended separations can lead to profound emotional scars. Liran’s call for action highlights not only individual suffering but also the importance of collective advocacy for hostages.

Raising Awareness Amid Crisis

Through interviews and public engagements, Liran aims to raise awareness about the plight of his brothers and all hostages, urging the global community to unite against the foundations of terrorism. His narrative serves to humanize the statistics often presented in news outlets, bringing a personal touch to the numbers we hear.

Voices for the Voiceless

Liran’s passionate advocacy is about more than just his brothers; it is a call for humanity to stand together against the violence that fractures communities. By showcasing personal stories, he hopes to inspire action among those who can influence change, whether through political channels or grassroots movements.

In ending, the Berman family’s search for justice continues amidst the backdrop of a turbulent geopolitical landscape. Liran remains committed to sharing his brothers’ story, standing firm in the belief that they are alive, and that efforts are paramount in bringing them home.