JEWISH NEWS CAMPAIGN: 229 blue and white balloons, floating in the autumn sky

One balloon for each hostage still held by Hamas are being released in cities across the world today as part of a Jewish News campaign to raise awareness of their plight and demand their safe return.

The project is the first coordinated international action since at least 229 men, women and children were snatched from their homes and a music festival by Hamas terrorists on 7 October.

Among the more than 15 cities from which blue and white balloons will be released are New York, Paris, Buenos Aires, New Delhi and Melbourne.

In London, hundreds stood with Noam Sagi, whose 85-year-old mother Ada was among those taken hostage, in front of the iconic Tower Bridge to participate in the “Balloons of Hope” campaign. The project was conceived by the Jewish News in London and brought to life by the Israeli embassy in London in partnership with Women United for Peace.

Justin Cohen, co-publisher and news editor, Jewish News said: “It was an honour to work with such an incredible team on an initiative that has caught the imagination of communities across the globe. To have Noam Sagi amongst us was particularly special.

“He praised those present for giving him the strength to do what he does. But in truth, it’s him and his inspirational and selfless approach that gives the communities of both British and Israeli Jews the strength to fight with every fibre of their being to bring home each and every captured Israeli.”

The gravity of the crisis is underscored by the plight of those released, including Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper, whose recent liberations have provided a glimmer of hope amidst the prevailing fear and uncertainty.