Liz Naftali fights for remaining Gaza hostages after rescuing her great-niece Abigail

The January 24, 2025, episode of "Your West Palm Beach" featured a poignant discussion centered on the ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza, particularly highlighting the story of Abigail, a young girl who was abducted during the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas. The episode included insights from Liz Naftali, the great aunt of Abigail, who shared her family's harrowing experience and the journey to bring Abigail home.

Naftali recounted the tragic events of that day when Hamas terrorists attacked the NOVA Music Festival and surrounding Israeli communities, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and more than 250 abductions. Among the victims were Naftali's niece and nephew, who were killed in front of their children. Abigail, then just three years old, was taken hostage after witnessing her father's murder.

In her book, "Saving Abigail," Naftali detailed the family's relentless efforts to secure Abigail's release after 51 days in captivity. She described how the news of Abigail's survival became a beacon of hope for her family. Naftali printed hundreds of copies of Abigail's photo to share during meetings with lawmakers and in the media, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.

Abigail was eventually released alongside 16 others, including a neighbor who cared for her during captivity. Naftali expressed gratitude for the woman who comforted Abigail during her ordeal, treating her as one of her own children. Now five years old, Abigail is living with her cousins and siblings, but Naftali remains committed to advocating for the release of all remaining hostages.

The episode concluded with Naftali expressing hope for the safe return of the other hostages and her ongoing collaboration with other families affected by the crisis. The discussions underscored the emotional toll of the hostage situation and the determination of families to see their loved ones returned home.