Gal Gadot, the actress known for “Snow White,” visited Hostages Square in Tel Aviv on Sunday to show her support for families of hostages. The square is a central gathering place for activism related to the Israeli hostages.
The “Wonder Woman” star and former member of the Israel Defense Forces offered comfort to families whose loved ones have been held by Hamas since the October 7, 2023, attack nearly two years ago.
Her visit happened on “Israel on Hold” day, a nationwide protest organized by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum. The forum is urging the government to prioritize negotiations for the release of the approximately 50 hostages still held, with almost 20 thought to be alive.
Families are concerned that the government’s recent approval of a larger military operation in Gaza, including plans to take over Gaza City, could endanger the hostages rather than help free them.
Gadot was photographed at the square embracing Lishay Miran‑Lavi, the wife of Omri Miran, who was taken from their home in Kibbutz Nahal Oz by Hamas terrorists, in front of her and their two young daughters.
Gadot was also seen hugging Einav Zangauker, the mother of Matan Zangauker, who, along with his girlfriend Ilana Gritzewsky, was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the attack. Einav has become a prominent advocate for the hostage families.
Gadot’s interactions with the families highlighted the strong connection she aimed to establish with those whose voices are key to the national campaign for the hostages. The forum later expressed their deep gratitude for her visit.
“We were deeply moved by visit to Hostages Square today,” the Hostages and Missing Families Forum said in a statement to Digital on Sunday. “She chose to spend real time with us, sitting with the families and Hamas captivity survivors, listening with patience and empathy, and sharing in our pain. For families who have endured nearly two years of fear and uncertainty, her presence was a rare moment of comfort and strength.”
“This visit was one of many gestures and events taking place across the country today as part of the day of stoppage, and the love and support shown to the families has been overwhelming,” the organization added. “It reminded us that the hostages have not been forgotten, that their plight matters not only in Israel but around the world, and that we are not alone in this struggle. Gal’s compassion and solidarity are among the sources of strength that help us continue until all 50 hostages are returned.”
Gadot has been a well-known of Israel for a long time and has frequently used her platform to advocate for her country.
However, her visibility has also made her a target of criticism internationally.
The actress, who recently starred in “Snow White,” reportedly mentioned in an interview with Channel Keshet 12 that she believes pressure in Hollywood for celebrities “to speak out against Israel” contributed to the film’s disappointing box-office performance. She claimed that the negative reaction to her outspoken pro-Israel stance has affected her career, according to . Despite the criticism, she has continued to bring international attention to the cause.