Hamas Hostage Survivors, Families to Mark Two Years Since Oct. 7 Attacks with Vigils and Call to Action in DC

WASHINGTON — On Tuesday, October 7, 2025, hostage families and captivity survivors will gather at the River Pavilion at the Kennedy Center to host the Sukkah of Hope, a powerful symbol marking the Jewish holiday of Sukkot and the solemn two-year anniversary of the October 7 terror attack. On that day, Hamas took 251 people hostage — 48 of whom remain in captivity. This gathering is part of a worldwide call for solidarity with the families of hostages and a demand for their immediate release.

The Sukkah of Hope, a temporary dwelling built for the holiday of Sukkot, will stand as a symbol of resilience, faith, and the urgent call to reunite families still separated by captivity.

The day will begin with a VIP Vigil at 10:00 a.m., honoring the lives lost during the attacks. Survivors and hostage family members will gather with policymakers, distinguished guests, cabinet members, members of Congress, ambassadors, and others in solemn reflection to remember the innocent victims and stand in solidarity with those still in captivity. White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff will deliver remarks.

Following the vigil, a press conference will be held at 11:30 a.m. to shed light on the urgent fight for the return of all remaining hostages, give family members and survivors the opportunity to share their stories, and continue to call on national and international leaders to act with urgency and resolve.

As part of the day’s events, the families will also deliver a formal statement marking the two-year anniversary and responding to the current developments.

Survivors and Family Members attending: 

• Noa Argamani, captivity survivor – She was taken from the Nova music festival and held captive for 284 days. Her partner Avinatan is still being held hostage.
• ⁠Keith Siegel, captivity survivor  – the oldest Israeli-American hostage, released after 484 days of captivity at the age of 65.
• Arbel Yehud, captivity survivor  –  She was taken from her home with her boyfriend Ariel Cunio and released after 482 days in captivity. Ariel is still being held hostage. 
• ⁠Iair Horn, captivity survivor  – held in captivity for 498 days. He was forced to leave behind his younger brother, Eitan Horn, who remains in Hamas captivity.
• ⁠Doron Steinbrecher, captivity survivor – abducted from her home in Kfar Aza and held hostage for 471 days before her release.
• Lishay Lavi Miran – her husband, Omri Miran, was taken from their home in front of her and their young children on October 7. He’s now the oldest living hostage.
• Liran Berman – His twin brothers, Gali and Ziv, were abducted from their home in Kfar Aza. They are still held hostage. 
• Yotam Cohen – His younger brother, Nimrod, was abducted from his burning tank. He is still held hostage.
• Nadav Rudaeff – His father, Lior, a resident of Nir Yitzhak, was murdered while defending the kibbutz. His body was taken hostage.