Families of Israeli hostages held a Central Park rally on Sunday, urging Presidents Biden and Trump to secure their loved ones’ release.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum issued a statement: “Seize the opportunity, seal the deal, and bring the hostages home.”

Photos from the event depict numerous participants; some displayed photos of hostages, while others addressed the crowd using microphones and megaphones.

“Imagine the joy of our loved ones’ release, the hugs we’ll share when they’re free from Hamas’ grasp,” stated Yarden Gonen, sister of hostage Romi Gonen. “For those who didn’t survive, may they receive proper burial in Israel, and may their families find peace. By Hanukkah.”

The IDF recently reported on social media that Capt. Omer Neutra, 21, from New York, was killed in action on October 7, 2023, and his body remains held hostage in Gaza.

Prior to this X post, Neutra was believed to be alive.

Due to Hamas holding Neutra’s body, he remains among seven American hostages in Gaza.

“My American identity was always important,” said Roy Chen, brother of hostage Itay Chen. “Our recent trip to Washington reinforced our message: decisive leadership is crucial. We’re capable of securing a deal. While rebuilding our nation and planning for the future, we must end the hostages’ suffering. Bring them all home now.”

Chen, a U.S.-Israeli citizen abducted on October 7th during Hamas’s attack, was confirmed dead by the IDF in March.

Yonat Friling and Danielle Wallace contributed to this report.