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Remembering the Israeli hostages kidnapped by Hamas
The bandstand in Castle Park was covered in posters of people kidnapped by Hamas as people in Bristol remembered the hostages still being held following the events of October 7.
Names of the hostages taken from Israel were read out during a vigil at the bandstand on Sunday afternoon.
As well as the red and white posters with faces of the hostages, the bandstand had been decorated with heart-shaped red balloons.
In his opening words, vigil organiser Ishay, a mechanical engineer who lives in central Bristol, said that “we gather with heavy hearts and a shared yearning for the safe return of the 134 people who continue to be held hostage”.
Posters of the people kidnapped from Israel by Hamas had been placed around the bandstand – photo: Martin Booth
Ishay said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with them and their families, who endure an unimaginable burden of despair and to whom we extend our support and solidarity.
“It is our hope that today’s vigil amplifies our plea for their release.
“As we light these candles together, sharing the depths of pain and suffering, let us also regard each flicker as our collective hope, uniting us and igniting in us a shared humanity that transcends borders.”
He added: “We should not forget the people who at this moment in Gaza, are suffering unimaginable violence of any kind.”
Main photo: Martin Booth
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