France’s Bold Efforts to Secure the Release of Citizens Held Hostage in Gaza

Ofer Kalderon, who had been held hostage for 484 days, finally returned home on February 1, 2025. His sister-in-law, Sharon, joyfully announced, “Ofer is back! We can finally hold him in our arms again.” She expressed deep gratitude to the French government and praised key figures who helped secure his release, including President Macron and his advisers.

Ofer’s brother, Nissan, echoed this sentiment, thanking France explicitly before mentioning the United States. This focus on France highlighted its quiet yet vital role during a crisis that began on October 7, 2023. That day marked a devastating attack by Hamas that led to the loss of around 1,200 lives in Israel and the kidnapping of 251 individuals.

This tragedy also affected France significantly, as it suffered the second-highest number of casualties after Israel. Reports indicate that 82 French nationals were victims, with 49 deaths and 27 injuries. Five French hostages have been released, but the ordeal continues for others. One hostage, whose death was announced in January, is still unaccounted for.

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