Interfaith leaders from across New York came together today in an emotional gathering with families of hostages still held by Hamas, echoing a powerful call for immediate action and compassion.

The meeting, held under the leadership of Emillie Moatti, a former Knesset member, brought together diverse voices of faith to amplify a shared message: every day in captivity is a day too long.

The gathering, intimate yet resolute, featured nine family members of hostages who laid bare their heartbreak and anguish before the religious leaders — recounting stories of silence, sleepless nights, and the desperate hope that justice and humanity would prevail.

“We were deeply moved by the families’ stories and pleas for help,” said Sheikh Musa Drammeh, President of Muslims Israel Dialogue. “As interfaith leaders, we recognize the urgency of this situation and are committed to using our collective voices to advocate for the immediate release of all hostages.”

The emotion in the room was palpable as leaders from Jewish, Christian, and Muslim communities pledged solidarity with the families — vowing to use their platforms for advocacy at every level of political and diplomatic influence. From Washington to New York, they are preparing to meet lawmakers, mobilize communities, and raise a chorus of conscience for those still in captivity.

“We stand united in our demand for the immediate release of all hostages,” declared Hon. Emillie Moatti. “We will do everything within our power to ensure that their voices are heard and their stories are told, and we call on all decision-makers to take immediate action to secure their freedom.”

The interfaith coalition is also launching coordinated efforts through calls, emails, and public advocacy campaigns — a grassroots strategy with a global goal. Their message is clear: hostage-taking is a violation of human dignity, and silence is complicity.

“Time is of the essence,” Sheikh Drammeh warned. “No hostage should continue to suffer in captivity. We urge everyone to join us in this effort, to raise their voices, and to demand action from our leaders.”

This heartfelt encounter wasn’t just a meeting — it was a movement in the making. A movement that cuts across religious lines, united not by creed, but by a shared belief in the sanctity of life and the urgency of justice.