Schools Mark Return to Classes With Red Balloons for Missing Girl

On the occasion of the school year's return, numerous Israeli educational institutions participated in a campaign to draw attention to the disappearance of Hymanut Kassaou, who has been missing since February 2024. Students and staff released or hung red balloons, an international symbol for abducted children, at schools across the country. Hymanut was supposed to begin sixth grade this year.

The campaign was initiated by a collective advocating for her return. "As the children of Israel enter their classrooms with emotion, Hymanut Kassaou will not be able to exercise what should be a fundamental right, as she is still being held," the collective stated, urging students nationwide to bring a red balloon on the first day of school.

Hymanut's father, Tsafiya Kassaou, described the return to school as particularly painful for his family. "The first day of school is always an emotional and joyful day, but for us it is another difficult day," he said. "Hymanut loves to learn, she is an intelligent child, but she is not starting her sixth grade as she should have." He called for continued mobilization so that "red balloons fill the sky" and carry the family's plea for her return.

In Migdal HaEmek, the "Campus Si" school held a red balloon release with students and staff. The mayor, Yaki Ben Haim, affirmed the city's continued support for the family. In Tel Aviv, Yitzhak Rabin High School also hung red balloons on its gates, alongside photos of Hymanut, to maintain focus on her case.