Love and Hope Amid Captivity: A Wife's Vigil for Her Husband’s Return

After 18 months of uncertainty and separation from her husband, Omri, who has been held by Hamas, Lishay Miran reflects on their family’s struggles, her unwavering belief in his survival, and the longing for personal and national freedom as she prepares for Passover without him.

As Omri Miran’s 48th birthday passes, Lishay anxiously awaits the day she can send him a message that will finally show as delivered on WhatsApp. Held by Hamas for the past 18 months, Omri’s absence resonates deeply within their family, especially with the approaching Passover holiday, symbolizing freedom.

Since Omri's abduction from their Kibbutz Nahal Oz home on October 7, 2023, Lishay has been sending heartfelt messages in a chat she named "Notes to Omri." The messages narrate their daughters’ growth and daily life without him. “So many people are helping me,” she wrote earlier, expressing gratitude for the support she has received from the community during these harrowing times.

This birthday marks a somber occasion for Lishay, as she reflects on how their daughters are growing up without their dad. Belief in his survival remains unwavering; released hostages reported seeing Omri alive last July. However, this period has been especially challenging with imminent holidays such as Pesach, which celebrates liberation. "I don't feel free," she shared, emphasizing the emotional weight carried by many Israelis, including those awaiting the return of their loved ones.

Just a stone's throw from Gaza, Lishay visits their former home, where memories of a happier time haunt her; she feels close to Omri despite his absence. The recent return to hostilities has reignited fears among hostage families, adding to her emotional burden.

Despite her frustration and anger, she refrains from criticizing the Israeli government openly. While Prime Minister Netanyahu continues to reassure families of hostages' return, Lishay is left grappling with the reality that they may have to wait much longer than expected for this promise to materialize. "We are going to wait one year more?" she asks, concerned for Omri's safety.

As she continues to message her husband, she looks for signs—hoping for the gray ticks to transform into blue ones. “I know someday it'll happen,” Lishay asserts, holding tightly to the belief that Omri will come home.