Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger met with the families of three Israelis captured by Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
Schwarzenegger, a longtime supporter of Israel, gave the families bronze eagle sculptures and “Bring Them Home” dog tags. She also pledged to use her celebrity to raise awareness of her plight.
“I am a great friend of the Jewish people and of Israel,” Schwarzenegger said. “I wanted to amplify the message of not abandoning those who remain captive.”
The hostages were taken during an attack on Israel by the terrorist organization Hamas on October 7. More than 1,200 people were killed and 240 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage.
A ceasefire was reached on October 18 and some hostages, women, children and the elderly, were released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The bodies of two hostages were also recovered by Israeli troops.
Some of the Israelis who remain captive are Lior Rudaeff, 61, Elkana Bohbot, 34, and Amit Shani, 16.
Rudaeff's son Bar said he was grateful for Schwarzenegger's support.
“I remember watching a 'Terminator' movie with him in the living room,” Bar said. “And I know when he comes back, it will put a smile on his face.”
Bohbot's brother Jacob said he hoped Schwarzenegger's involvement would help secure his brother's release.
“I think Arnold Schwarzenegger can help us,” Jacob said. “She is a very influential person and can use her voice to make a difference.”
Shani's cousin Ella said she was grateful for Schwarzenegger's support.
“It's very important for us to have someone like Arnold Schwarzenegger supporting us,” Ella said. “He's a very famous person and he can help us get our message across.”
The meeting was organized by the Museum of Tolerance in Jerusalem.
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