Merav Berger’s Shabbat Wishes for Daughter’s Release Appear to Have Come True

JERUSALEM – Merav Berg, the mother of Agam Berg, who was taken hostage from the Nahal Oz military post during the October 7 massacre, last week shared a heartfelt decision regarding her daughter’s anticipated return as part of a hostage release deal. In a video message, posted here on VIN News https://vinnews.com/2025/01/24/hostages-mother-requests-not-to-desecrate-shabbat-for-her-daughters-release/ Merav explained that she consulted with rabbis, including the IDF’s chief rabbi, and chose to avoid desecrating the Sabbath to find out if her daughter had been freed.

“I will wait for Agam, God willing, when she arrives, with as little desecration of the Sabbath as possible,” she said. She also addressed those supporting the hostages’ families, adding, “Please, if possible, do not desecrate the Sabbath. Do not take photos, do not be photographed, and wait until the Sabbath ends. After the Sabbath, we will go, and there will be plenty of time for photos and pictures.” Her remarks came during a challah separation ceremony held in honor of Agam.

Merav’s wishes now appear to have come true, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed Sunday that Agam will be released this Thursday, along with civilian Arbel Yehud and a third unnamed hostage. The release is part of a deal with Hamas, resolving a dispute over the timing of hostage releases and ensuring that Agam’s return will not coincide with Shabbat.

This comes after previous hostage releases occurred on Shabbat, a situation that Merav had hoped to avoid. Agam’s release will be timed to ensure it does not coincide with Shabbat.