Liran Berman describes his twin brothers, Gali and Ziv, as the light of every room they enter. The two were taken hostage from their home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza during Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks. Gali and Ziv were lighting technicians who chose to stay in southern Israel to care for their father, who suffers from dementia and Parkinson’s disease. They were kidnapped together but were separated shortly after arriving in Gaza, along with Emily Damari. Despite being apart, Liran remains hopeful, as they have received signs of life from the released hostages.
The Berman family has been fighting for over a year with the belief that Gali and Ziv are alive. Hearing confirmation from the released hostages has given them strength, knowing that their brothers are still alive after more than a year in captivity. Liran believes that President Donald Trump has the power to secure his brothers’ release, as his election has brought a different atmosphere to the negotiations with Hamas. He is encouraged by the current administration’s efforts to bring all the hostages home and is hopeful for their safe return.
Liran has been advocating for his brothers’ release by visiting various U.S. cities to raise awareness about the situation. He wants people to understand that Gali and Ziv are innocent victims of a conflict and that they have their whole lives ahead of them. He hopes to show that they are not so different from the college students who may become involved in anti-Israel unrest on campuses. Liran wants them to realize the humanity of Gali and Ziv and understand the impact their captivity has on those who love and miss them.
Despite the separation and uncertainty surrounding Gali and Ziv’s captivity, the Berman family remains steadfast in their belief that they will be reunited with their brothers. Liran remains optimistic about the efforts being made by the Trump administration to bring the remaining hostages home. He is grateful for the signs of life they have received and the strength it has given his family to continue fighting for Gali and Ziv’s safe return. The support and hope from their community, as well as Liran’s advocacy efforts, have helped keep the spirit of Gali and Ziv alive in the hearts of those who love them.
Liran recounts the harrowing experience of his brothers being ripped from their beds while sleeping late on a Saturday during a holiday weekend. The impact of this traumatic event has been felt deeply by the Berman family, who have endured the uncertainty and fear of not knowing the fate of Gali and Ziv for over a year. Despite the hardships they have faced, they remain hopeful and resilient, holding on to the belief that Gali and Ziv will eventually be reunited with their loved ones. Through their unwavering faith and the support of their community, the Berman family continues their fight for justice and freedom for Gali and Ziv.
As Liran shares his brothers’ story with the world, he hopes to raise awareness and garner support for their release. He wants people to understand the human side of the conflict in which Gali and Ziv have become innocent victims. By shining a light on their plight and advocating for their safe return, Liran hopes to bring attention to the ongoing struggle of their family and others affected by similar circumstances. With the support of their community and the efforts of the Trump administration, there is renewed hope that Gali and Ziv will eventually be brought home to their family, where they belong.
