Key Facts
- ✓ The Hostages Forum represents most families of Hamas captives
- ✓ The organization is ending activities in its current form
- ✓ A select group will continue accompanying relatives of the last slain hostage
- ✓ Ran Gvili is the last slain hostage still in Gaza
Quick Summary
The Hostages Forum has declared it will cease operations in its current structure. This organization has been the primary representative for the families of individuals held captive by Hamas. The decision to close comes while the situation regarding the final slain hostage, Ran Gvili, remains unresolved in Gaza.
Despite the closure of the main organization, a specialized group will remain active. This select team is tasked with continuing to provide support and accompaniment to the relatives of the last hostage. The Forum released a statement noting that while their organizational form is changing, the struggle is not over. This development signals a transition from large-scale public advocacy to a more focused, private support mission for the remaining family.
Organizational Transition
The Hostages Forum announced a major shift in its operational status. The organization stated it is ending activities in its current form. This marks a pivotal moment for the group that has coordinated efforts for the majority of families affected by the Hamas captives situation.
The transition involves a reduction in scope. Rather than dissolving entirely, the Forum is restructuring its efforts. A select group will continue to function specifically to accompany the relatives of the last slain hostage. This ensures that the immediate family members of Ran Gvili retain dedicated support channels.
"struggle not over"
— Hostages Forum Statement
The Situation in Gaza
The context of this closure is the ongoing situation in Gaza. The status of Ran Gvili remains a central issue. As the last slain hostage still located in the region, the circumstances surrounding his situation dictate the continued focus of the remaining Forum members.
The organization's statement highlighted that the struggle continues despite the administrative closure. The physical presence of the last hostage in Gaza prevents a complete cessation of advocacy and support work. Therefore, the remaining group is maintaining a specific focus on this singular, unresolved case.
Future Outlook
While the Hostages Forum is closing its general operations, the mission for the remaining families is not finished. The specific group continuing their work represents a shift from broad public campaigning to direct, private assistance for the relatives of Ran Gvili.
The announcement serves as a formal recognition of the changing nature of the crisis response. As the situation evolves in Gaza, the support structure for the families is adapting to meet the remaining needs. The Forum's legacy of representing most families of captives concludes with this transition to a smaller, specialized support unit.
