Exclusive | Agam Berger’s Powerful Testimony: “Every Good Deed Brings Them Closer to Home”
On the 500th day of the war, a new initiative has been launched, calling for good deeds in support of the hostages | Central to the project is former hostage Agam Berger, who recalls: “They told us that when we are united, we are strong.”
Sinai Staff
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Agam reunites with her parents | Photo: IDF Spokesperson
“When they saw our division, it brought them joy, and when we are united, we are strong.”
IDF soldier Agam Berger had just begun her service as a border observation office. October 7th was her first Shabbat in the army, when Hamas terrorists stormed the Nahal Oz base. Her life was suddenly thrown into chaos which became a test of faith and resilience.
Before she was taken captive, Berger managed to call her father, Shlomi, and tell him she could hear gunfire. That was the last time her voice was heard. Hours later, harrowing footage confirmed the worst fears—Agam was seen being dragged into a vehicle, en route to captivity in Gaza.
Watch Agam deliver her stirring message:
After 482 days in Hamas captivity, Berger was freed. In a video recorded this week as part of a new initiative, she shared a powerful message: “When we were there, and they saw our division, it brought them joy. They told us that when we are united, we are strong. So, I ask you, despite our differences, let’s maintain our unity—because that is Israel’s true strength.”
First days in captivity | Photo: Hostage Families Forum
The Initiative: “Good Deeds for the Hostages” Marking the 500th day of the war, Agam Berger, in collaboration with Rega News, Rega Shel Chochma, and the ‘Together We Win’ association (led by Shai Graucher)—launched a meaningful campaign encouraging people to perform good deeds: ‘One Million Acts of Kindness.’
The project includes creating an extensive database of good deeds. Each participant is encouraged to take on a personal commitment—whether by helping their community, supporting family and friends, or engaging in a personal mitzvah—all with the goal of bringing the hostages home.
The idea was initiated by Agam’s belief that every positive action that strengthens the unity of the Jewish people will hasten the return of the captives. “I truly believe that each of us has the power to do something that will help bring the hostages home,” she says. “Every good deed you’ve done has already contributed to our return. We are here, and we want to bring everyone home soon.”
Objects from Agam Berger’s 20th birthday in Tel Aviv while she was still a hostage | Photo: Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90
“Thank You—We Are Here Because of You” In a heartfelt video produced by Rega Shel Chochma for the campaign, Berger expressed her deep gratitude to the IDF soldiers and security forces who risked—and continue to risk—their lives for Israel’s security and the safe return of all hostages. Berger also brings a message to all the people of Israel, who as a collective, have had unwavering support for the hostages the entire time. “Thank you to the entire nation of Israel, who stood by our families, fought for us, supported us, prayed, and did everything possible to bring us home,” she said with emotion.
Poster from the ‘Hostage Forum’ before the release of the border observation officers that says: “Look them in the eyes.” | Photo: Shutterstock
“This Truly Brings Us Closer to Returning Everyone Home” Agam comes from a strong and close-knit traditional Jewish Israeli family. When she speaks, one hears echoes of her mother and beloved family’s resilience is. They endured months of unimaginable hardship and pain but never lost hope for a single moment.
Shlomi and Meirav Berger, Agam’s parents | Photo: Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90
From Division to Unity: A Call for Action The Berger family is determined to transform their pain into positive action that strengthens the entire nation. “I ask each of you to commit to one good deed—an act of kindness, a small mitzvah, something for someone else. Every good deed truly brings all of them closer to home,” Agam urges.
Instead of division, the ‘Good Deeds Will Bring the Hostages Home’ initiative reminds us that every act of kindness reinforces national resilience and fuels hope. Having endured the darkest, loneliness moments of captivity, Agam knows better than anyone how much Israel’s unity unsettles its enemies. When she calls on us to act, it is an opportunity we cannot afford to ignore.
How Does the Project Work?
Visit the One Million Good Deedspage, commit to a meaningful act of kindness, and, with God’s help, bring the hostages closer to home.
