Needham Relative Celebrates Release of Israeli Hostage, Stresses Need for Continued Efforts

Compiled by CBS Boston Staff

NEEDHAM – A resident of Massachusetts expressed both relief and urgency following the release of his Israeli cousin from captivity. While calling the news "a tremendous victory," he emphasized the ongoing necessity of bringing other hostages back.

Held Captive for Over a Year

Jason Greenberg from Needham recounted receiving a life-altering phone call at 2:50 a.m. from his sister in Israel. She conveyed the joyous news that their cousin, a 54-year-old man, had finally been freed. Alongside him, two others—American-Israeli Keith Siegel and Israeli Yarden Bibas—were also released.

"I shed tears of happiness, celebrated, and embraced my wife," Greenberg remembered. "Not a day went by without him occupying my thoughts."

The released hostages had endured 484 days in captivity. They are now reunited with their families. During the same attack, two of Greenberg's cousins were killed, and the family had been grappling with uncertainty about the hostages' fate.

"Despite enduring such harsh conditions for 484 days, his signature smile is still there. Seeing it reappear is reassuring," noted Greenberg.

The former captive will undergo medical and psychological assessments during a four-day stay at a hospital in Tel Aviv. His home, destroyed in the assault, will be replaced by a temporary residence at a discreet location in Israel once he leaves the hospital.

Ongoing Family Agonies

Greenberg expressed gratitude for his cousin's release but voiced ongoing discontent with the lengthy wait. Many families are still in anguish over their loved ones’ captivity, with some receiving the grim reality that their relatives are no longer alive.

He remarked, "Had the agreement been accepted sooner, specifically on May 31st, this harrowing experience could have ended 266 days earlier for Ofer and the others."

Greenberg has plans to travel to Israel soon, eager to reconnect with his cousin.

"Imagine being in my position. Would you ever give up hope for a family member? The belief in their return never wavers," stated Greenberg.

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Victoria D. serves as a digital producer for CBS Boston. With over a decade of journalism experience in New York and Boston, she joined CBS Boston in 2023.