UK hostage families forum chief honoured for ‘brilliant campaigning’

The London-based head of the Hostages Forum has been honoured at Magen David Adom UK’s annual dinner. 

Nivi Feldman, who dropped everything to support the families of Israel’s hostages in Gaza over the last two years, picked up the inaugural Bridge to Israel Award ahead of a wider ceremony organised by MDA in April next year.

The self-effacing Feldman organised delegations of family members and helped coordinate campaigns galvanising shuls and politicians in raising awareness of those held in Gaza.

Daniel Burger, MDA UK chief executive, said the award recognised her “brilliant humanitarian campaigning through the toughest times. She isn’t part of the Anglo-Jewish establishment and carries no official title, but has made such an impact.”

The award was presented by Dr Shoshan Haran – who was herself held captive for 50 days and whose husband, Avshalom, was murdered – presented the honour.

Saying she was “deeply touched”, Feldman told Jewish News: “These past two years have been about standing with the hostage families and ensuring their voices were heard across the UK. It has been an honour to support them and to advocate for the hostages during the darkest moments.

“MDA sits at the heart of Israeli society, and their work represents the very best of our people. I will continue to do everything I can until every hostage is brought home for a dignified burial.”