Thousands Pray at Western Wall for Hostages’ Return

Stand for Israel  |  April 25, 2024

During the traditional priestly blessing at the Western Wall for Passover, thousands gathered to pray for all the hostages still held in Gaza, reports The Times of Israel:

Male descendants of the priestly class traditionally chant the benediction while raising their hands and wrapping themselves in their prayer shawls, in order to bless the congregants present.

Sigalit Cohen, born to such a family, told Kan news that she came to the Western Wall to pray for the return of her son Eliya, who was taken captive by Hamas on October 7, and is likely “unable to recite the priestly blessing [in Gaza].”

“Eliya planned to propose to his girlfriend on the balcony in front of the Western Wall,” she said. “I hope that this prayer will reach [the hostages] in Gaza, will strengthen them there, and God willing, they will return.”