Experiencing the reunion with his son after 500 days of Hamas captivity, Jonathan Dekel-Chen expressed the profound emotion of the moment, likening it to a rebirth. His son, Sagui, a 36-year-old American-Israeli, was held captive in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel. Dekel-Chen shared his family's constant fear for Sagui's life during his captivity, compounded by the lack of communication until shortly before his release. The reunion was a moment he will cherish forever. Sagui was among a group of hostages released last week, which included Alexander Troufanov and Iair Horn. The release has been accompanied by joyful images and videos of Sagui reuniting with his loved ones, including his wife, Avital, who gave birth to their third daughter during his captivity. Jonathan also spoke of the bittersweet news of Hamas's decision to return the remains of Shiri Bibas and her young children, Kfir and Ariel, victims of the October 7th attack. Living near the Bibas family, Jonathan described the news as "heart-wrenching," highlighting the tragedy of the situation and the difficult compromises necessary to bring hostages home. He acknowledged the challenging road ahead for Sagui's physical and emotional recovery after enduring rudimentary medical care, limited food, and harsh conditions during his captivity. Jonathan also emphasized the ongoing need for efforts to secure the release of five other U.S. citizens still held captive in Gaza.
Sagui Dekel-Chen and his father Jonathan embrace after Sagui's release. (Fox & Friends First/Screengrab)
The Bibas family (Ofri Bibas Levy)
