Father Shares Emotional Sukkot Reunion With Son Freed From Hamas Captivity

This Sukkot marks a deeply emotional reunion for Zvika Mor, whose son Eitan was held captive by Hamas for 738 days. Last year, during the holiday, Zvika Mor did not know if his son was alive, leaving an empty chair at their Sukkah table. This year, Eitan is home, celebrating the holiday with his family after his release nearly a year ago as part of a hostage deal.

"Last year, on the eve of Sukkot, I didn't even know if my son was alive," Zvika Mor wrote in a moving social media post. "We left an empty chair for him and prayed. We didn't imagine that on the last day of the holiday, he would return to us. This year, there is no empty chair. Eitan is here. Breathing, smiling, at home."

Eitan Mor, who survived his ordeal in Hamas tunnels, has also been active in public advocacy, speaking fluent Arabic about the horrors of captivity. His father expressed gratitude to God, the soldiers involved in his son's rescue, and the Israeli public for their prayers and support.

Reflecting on the holiday from a different perspective, Itamar Itam, a soldier who was in Gaza last year during Sukkot on a mission, connected the holiday's traditions to the ongoing security situation. He noted that Sukkot celebrations last year were conducted in Gaza without decorations, emphasizing the mission to defeat the enemy and return hostages. Itam also highlighted the importance of unity, comparing the four species used in Sukkot rituals to the hostages, stressing that the commandment is not fulfilled if any one element is left out.

Itam further acknowledged the thousands of reservists and soldiers currently serving on the front lines during the holiday, leaving their own Sukkot celebrations to protect the nation. He saluted these soldiers and their families, recognizing their sacrifices that allow others to celebrate safely.