Jonathan Dekel-Chen, professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and father of Sagui Dekel-Chen, discusses the emotional turmoil of having a son held hostage by Hamas while other hostages are being released. He pleads with the Israeli government for his son's safe return and reflects on the difficulty of eradicating fundamentalism. Despite the situation, the speaker remains optimistic and emphasizes the importance of taking positive actions that benefit others.
Jonathan Dekelhan tirelessly advocates for the safe return of his son, Sagi, who was taken captive during a Hamas attack, urging cooperation between governments and emphasizing the urgency of getting the hostages home safely.
The hostage families reject mass retaliation and emphasize the need for a negotiated solution to ensure the safe return of all hostages, including Jonathan's son, Sagi, highlighting the potential for more casualties and the importance of a peaceful resolution.
Deep dives
The Tragic Capture of Sagi: A Father's Desperate Plea
Jonathan Dekelhan, the father of Sagi, who went missing during a Hamas invasion on their Israeli kibbutz, is tirelessly advocating for his son's safe return. Sagi, a loving father and skilled baseball player, was taken captive during the attack. Jonathan shares photos and personal stories with lawmakers in Israel and the US to bring attention to Sagi's case. Amidst tense exchanges between the hostage families and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Jonathan urges cooperation between the governments and emphasizes the urgency of getting the hostages, including his son, home safely.
Impacted Lives: Devastating Loss and Unwavering Hope
The brutal nature of the Hamas attack on Jonathan Dekelhan's Israeli kibbutz led to the loss of many lives. Jonathan tragically eulogized a family of six, including three children, who were dear friends of his family. The hostage families, while grateful for the release of some hostages in November, understand the gravity of the situation and the potential for more casualties. They reject the idea of mass retaliation and emphasize the need for a negotiated solution that ensures the safe return of all hostages, including Jonathan's son, Sagi.
Sagi's Light: A Symbol of Optimism and Altruism
Jonathan Dekelhan fondly describes his son, Sagi, as a radiant and optimistic individual. Sagi's infectious smile and belief in doing good for others have left a lasting impression on everyone he meets. A talented baseball player and father to two little girls, he embodies the spirit of altruism. Jonathan cherishes the iconic photo of Sagi, bathed in sunlight, which represents his son's unwavering positivity and his ability to make the world a better place. Jonathan's ultimate hope is to be reunited with Sagi and witness the joyous reunion of his son with his family.
Over 100 hostages being held by Hamas were released during the temporary ceasefire last month. But Sagui Dekel-Chen, a resident of Kibbutz Nir Oz, was not among them. With Gaza under bombardment again, all his father can do is plead with the Israeli government, and wait.
Guest: Jonathan Dekel-Chen, professor at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, father of Sagui Dekel-Chen, who is presumed to be one of the hostages held by Hamas.
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