Final Kabbalat Shabbat Service Marks End of Hostage Crisis in Israel

On January 26, 2026, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum held its final Kabbalat Shabbat service at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, marking a significant moment in Israel's history. This gathering followed the return of the body of police officer Ran Gvili, the last hostage held in Gaza since the onset of the hostage crisis on October 7, 2023. The service was attended by hundreds, celebrating the first time since July 20, 2014, that no Israelis were held captive in Gaza.

Hostages Forum to hold its final Kabbalat Shabbat in Tel Aviv on FridaySubdued but cheerful atmosphere at Hostages Square as crowd gathers for final Kabbalat Shabbat service‘We kept our promise’: Final Shabbat service held at Hostages SquareFormer hostage Omri Miran pleads to maintain the unity brought by the return of Ran Gvili’s bodyRan Gvili’s friends represent his family at final Hostages Square Kabbalat Shabbat service

The atmosphere at the service was a blend of subdued joy and solemn remembrance. Ayelet Sela Youngerman, a representative of the Kibbutz Movement, opened the ceremony by expressing gratitude for Gvili's return, stating, “Now in the square, thanks to you, today we can say we kept our promise: Rani is back and there are no more hostages.” Friends of Gvili, representing his family during their mourning period, thanked attendees for their support, emphasizing the collective effort to not leave anyone behind.

‘We kept our promise’: Final Shabbat service held at Hostages Square

Dvora Idan, mother of slain hostage Tsahi Idan, highlighted the importance of mutual responsibility, urging the crowd to embrace unity despite past conflicts. “This is a value anchored in the spirit of the IDF,” she said, reinforcing the need for community solidarity.

‘We kept our promise’: Final Shabbat service held at Hostages Square

Released hostage Omri Miran shared his emotional response to Gvili's return, describing it as a moment of collective relief for the nation. He expressed concern over maintaining the unity experienced during this time, stating, “A whole nation was, for a few moments, back together, really together.” Miran also acknowledged the contributions of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and security personnel.

‘We kept our promise’: Final Shabbat service held at Hostages Square

As the service concluded, attendees reflected on the future of Hostages Square, which had served as a central gathering place for families of captives and the public. Miran's father, Dani, proposed that the square retain its name and suggested creating a memorial corner with a metal sculpture of a tree for people to hang mementos of the hostages. He called for continued advocacy for a country that respects all citizens, regardless of differing opinions.

‘We kept our promise’: Final Shabbat service held at Hostages Square

The service ended with the singing of "Hatikvah," Israel's national anthem, and "Shir L’Shalom," a song associated with peace, further underscoring the themes of hope and remembrance.

Former hostage Omri Miran pleads to maintain the unity brought by the return of Ran Gvili’s body‘We kept our promise’: Final Shabbat service held at Hostages SquareRan Gvili’s friends represent his family at final Hostages Square Kabbalat Shabbat service

The final Kabbalat Shabbat service at Hostages Square not only commemorated the end of a painful chapter in Israeli history but also served as a reminder of the importance of community and unity in the face of adversity. As the plaza transitions into a new phase, the memories and lessons from the hostage crisis will continue to resonate within Israeli society.

Hostages Forum to hold its final Kabbalat Shabbat in Tel Aviv on Friday