In brief
This year's Passover is marked by sorrow for many in Israel, as the continued captivity of hostages held by Hamas dampens the joy typically associated with the holiday of freedom.
In Jerusalem and Haifa, the spirit of Passover, a festival symbolizing liberation, is overshadowed by the heart-wrenching reality of hostages still held in Gaza. Yona Schnitzer, a marketing writer from Tel Aviv, recalls last year's Seder where he prayed for their return, believing they would be freed by this year's festivities. "It’s surreal and heartbreaking," he reflects on the normalization of such a crisis.As families prepare to gather for the weeklong celebration this weekend, they find it challenging to embrace the joy of Passover. Orly Gavishi-Sotto, a college administrator, encapsulates this sentiment: “We can only celebrate when all the hostages are home.” In a poignant gesture, many families will leave an empty chair at the Seder table, representing those unable to join due to ongoing captivity. With the backdrop of the war ignited by the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, the essence of Passover is transformed for these families. Instead of rejoicing in historical liberation, they are reminded of the somber reality impacting their community. The empty chair symbolizes hope and the collective yearning for the return of loved ones to their homes during such a significant time.
