Ilana Gritzewsky

Ilana Gritzewsky, a 30-year-old with dual Mexican-Israeli citizenship, was abducted by Hamas terrorists from her Kibbutz Nir Oz home on October 7, during a devastating attack that significantly impacted the kibbutz community. This day, marked by widespread violence and loss, saw the killing or kidnapping of a substantial portion of the kibbutz's residents, an event that has since been referred to as Black Shabbat.

Ilana's partner, 24-year-old Matan Zangauker, was also taken during this assault. Before their capture, Matan was in communication with his mother, Einav Zangauker, reassuring her of their safety as they were in their bedroom, which doubled as a safe room. As the situation deteriorated, Matan's messages to his mother conveyed a sense of impending danger, culminating in a final, ominous text that hinted at the terrorists' presence within their home.

Ilana's journey to Israel began in her teenage years when she moved from Quintana Roo, Mexico, on a scholarship through the Naale program, which offers Jewish diaspora teenagers the opportunity to complete their high school education in Israel. With a passion for baking that led to her occupation as a pastry chef, Ilana had spent time in Mexico City before returning to Israel just days prior to her abduction.

Her release on November 30 as part of a ceasefire deal was a moment of relief and joy, abated by the fact that Matan remains in captivity.