Kathy Ireland Joins Tribute: Thanksgiving Tables Set with Empty Seats to Honor Hostages
"Marine veteran and Save Our Allies co-founder, Chad Robichaux, shares insights on the anticipated cease-fire for the exchange of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Families of Americans held captive by Hamas during the Gaza conflict are initiating the 'Seats of Hope' campaign this Thanksgiving, urging people to reserve an empty seat at their tables in honor of those awaiting their return.
The symbolic gesture aims to represent those unable to reunite with their families and serves as a beacon of hope for their safe homecoming. In a heartfelt statement, the families expressed their anguish over the October 7 terrorist attacks in Israel, marking 45 days since their loved ones were captured by Hamas terrorists. With uncertainty prevailing about their whereabouts and well-being, the families emphasize the importance of holding those present close and keeping absent members in their hearts during the Thanksgiving gathering.
The 'Seats of Hope: Host A Hostage at Your Thanksgiving Table' campaign, organized by the Hostages and Missing Families forum, encourages participants to print a sign featuring a hostage's name and story, placing it alongside their family. After the meal, participants are urged to share a photo of the empty seat on social media and the campaign's website. This collective effort is symbolized by a red dot on the interactive map, underscoring the unified call for the hostages' release.
Children's author Bethany Mandel and model Kathy Ireland are among those championing the campaign online, urging followers to set a place for individuals like Avigail, the youngest American held in Gaza, whose parents tragically lost their lives on October 7. Kathy Ireland, the CEO and chief designer of Kathy Ireland Worldwide, shared that her family will be leaving an empty seat at their Thanksgiving table to acknowledge those held hostage in Gaza."
"This Thanksgiving, we're leaving empty seats at our table to honor hostages and remember those who've lost their lives. The gesture is a solemn acknowledgment of the ongoing persecution faced by Jews worldwide. We continue our support through donations and prayers, directing attention to non-profits like the American European Bethel Mission (http://aebm.info) and @FriendsOfSheba via http://afsmc.org. President Biden and administration officials have expressed support for the temporary cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, with hopes for the planned release of hostages on Friday. The agreement, brokered with Qatari assistance, outlines a pause in Israeli airstrikes and ground operations for humanitarian reasons. In return, Hamas commits to releasing hostages, and Israel agrees to release Palestinian prisoners on a 3-to-1 ratio. Fox News' Landon Mion contributed to this report. Nikolas Lanum is an associate editor for Fox News Digital."
As Thanksgiving approaches, the symbolic act of leaving empty seats at tables takes on a profound meaning, resonating with those praying for the safe return of hostages and honoring the lives lost amid ongoing conflicts. Amidst the acknowledgment of a world where Jews face persecution, a call to action accompanies the gesture—encouraging donations and prayers for organizations dedicated to addressing these challenges.
The recent announcement of a temporary cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas, welcomed by President Biden and administration officials, adds a layer of hope to the Thanksgiving narrative. The agreement, brokered with Qatari assistance, outlines a pause in military actions for humanitarian purposes. This delicate balance includes the planned release of hostages on Friday, demonstrating diplomatic efforts to find common ground.
In the face of complex geopolitical challenges, the call to prayer and support for non-profits addressing the crisis underscores the importance of global solidarity. As families gather around Thanksgiving tables, these empty seats serve as poignant reminders of the human cost of conflict, emphasizing the need for continued efforts toward peace and justice. Fox News' Landon Mion's contribution to the report and Nikolas Lanum's editorial insights provide valuable context to a narrative shaped by both tragedy and hope.