48 Hostages Remain: Former Captive Pleads to 'POTUS Trump' for Urgent Action

Former hostage Doron Steinbrecher has issued a powerful plea to "POTUS Trump," urging him to prioritize the release of 48 remaining captives in Gaza during his upcoming meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Steinbrecher, who endured 471 days of captivity after being kidnapped from her home on October 7, 2023, shared her harrowing experience and called for renewed diplomatic efforts. Her statement highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the desperate situation of those still held by militant groups.

Steinbrecher was abducted from Kibbutz Kfar Aza during the initial October 7 attacks and was released on January 19, 2025, as part of a ceasefire deal. She described her ordeal, stating, > "I lived in fear and humiliation, cut off from the world, never knowing if I would survive another day." Her family previously expressed gratitude for "POTUS Trump's" "significant involvement and support" in securing her release.

The October 7, 2023, attacks saw approximately 251 individuals abducted into Gaza by Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups. As of September 17, 2025, 48 hostages are believed to remain in captivity, with an estimated 20 still alive. Previous negotiations and rescue operations have led to the return of 148 living hostages and the repatriation of 56 to 58 bodies.

Efforts to secure further releases have faced significant challenges, with negotiations for a comprehensive ceasefire and hostage exchange frequently stalling. The conditions for those in captivity have been described by released individuals as involving physical abuse, starvation, psychological torment, and isolation. Steinbrecher's appeal underscores the urgency of high-level international engagement to resolve the protracted crisis.

Concluding her emotional message, Steinbrecher directly addressed the President: > "Mr. President, as you meet Prime Minister Netanyahu, please make the hostages your top priority. Show the same strength and leadership that brought me home and bring them all back." Her words resonate with the families of the remaining captives, who continue to advocate tirelessly for the safe return of their loved ones.