The story of Avinatan Or
The life of the Or family was turned upside down following the kidnapping of Avinatan Or and his partner, Noa Argamani, at the Nova music festival in Re’im. “Nothing is like it used to be, and nothing can continue the same way,” Avinatan’s mother, Ditza, shared.
“We are immersed in this 24/7. Many actions help us manage the pressure, primarily prayers, reciting Psalms (an anthology of Hebrew religious hymns), and spiritual work, but also interactions with the media both locally and internationally, all kinds of interviews, and conversations with political and security officials.”
Ditza describes Avinatan as a tall, strong, talented, intelligent, and strikingly handsome young man. “He’s incredibly funny, yet a quiet leader. He doesn’t speak often, but whenever he does, his words precisely capture the essence of the moment. He’s extremely sensitive, always quick to understand others, offering support, protection, and help. Avinatan has always been beloved and admired wherever he went.”
Ditza shared a special bond with her son over aesthetics: “When I designed flower arrangements, he’d help me, commenting, ‘Mom, you’re missing a white flower here, and there’s too much in this arrangement.’ He has an extraordinary eye for beauty.”
Update: May 28, 2025 First Proof of Life Received
On May 28, 2025, the first sign of life from Avinatan Or was reported. He was kidnapped at age 30 from the Nova Festival alongside his girlfriend, Noa Argamani. According to testimonies from released hostages, Avinatan is being held in harsh conditions, deprived of food and receiving very limited water.
“We were informed that definite proof of his recent well-being was obtained,” Avinatan’s brother, Moshe, said. “Until Avinatan returns, my heart remains captive,” responded Noa Argamani.
The information was first revealed by Channel 12 news during their main evening broadcast, citing interrogations of hostages who had recently returned to Israel in a prisoner-exchange deal. These hostages reported that Avinatan was held in severe and inhuman conditions in the Gaza Strip’s central detention camps.
Noa Argamani, who was freed earlier through a military operation, shared her feelings on Instagram: “Until Avinatan returns, my heart remains captive.”
Moshe Or expressed relief mixed with concern: “Yesterday, intelligence officials informed us about verified recent proof of life. They didn’t specify exactly how recent, but we know it’s recent.” He added, “We were told that Avinatan was kept in conditions far from humane. Still, we are relieved. Until now, our last proof of his life was the kidnapping video itself.”
A Heartfelt Message for Avinatan’s Birthday
Last month, Argamani posted a touching message on social media commemorating Avinatan’s 32nd birthday, his second birthday spent in captivity. “I remember how we celebrated your 30th birthday two years ago, imagining our future together, getting married, building a home, conquering the world, and cherishing every moment,” she wrote. “We never imagined our lives would abruptly stop at that party.”
She concluded her post with a heartfelt plea: “I am doing everything to bring you back, to ensure you’re part of the next prisoner exchange deal, and to make sure you aren’t left behind. Please come back soon, healthy and safe, into my arms that long to hold you. I’m waiting to conquer the world with you.”
For the full list of Israeli Hostages read our Hamas Hostages article.