Liri’s resolve to “conquer the world” reflects her determination to reclaim her freedom after nearly 16 months in captivity.
By Gila Isaacson, JFeed
On the 600th day of the ongoing war, Liri Albag, a former IDF observation soldier who endured 477 days in Hamas captivity, has decided to return to military service, driven by a desire to “settle scores” with those who kidnapped her.
Her father, Eli Albag, shared the news in an emotional interview with Ynet, revealing that Liri, who survived unimaginable hardship, contacted military officials two to three weeks ago to pursue a unique role in the IDF.
“What’s good for her is good for us,” Eli said, adding that Liri aims to “experience the army, feel the army, and in some way, settle scores.”
Liri’s resolve to “conquer the world” reflects her determination to reclaim her freedom after nearly 16 months in captivity.
“They took her freedom in the lowest place in the world,” Eli explained, “and she wants to conquer the world in return.”
Her decision comes as the Albag family continues to deal with the trauma of the October 7, 2023, massacre and Liri’s abduction, counting each day since the war began, not only for Liri’s “rebirth” but also for the 58 hostages still held by Hamas.
Eli Albag described the family’s ongoing struggle, balancing the need to rebuild their lives with advocacy for the remaining hostages.
“We neglected our work for 477 days, and it’s hard to return fully,” he said. “We’re mending a shattered family, both Liri’s trauma and ours, while fighting for the others.”
He expressed frustration with vague statements from leaders like Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who on Monday hinted at potential hostage news, only for officials to clarify it as a figure of speech.
Eli said that these kind of remarks evoke painful memories of helplessness: “I thought, ‘What can I do? Shake the country.’ It’s desperation.”
The Albags, like other hostage families, rely on psychological support to cope with their ordeal.
“Families are living on pills, with psychologists and psychiatrists,” Eli said, urging leaders to be cautious with their words.
“I was in a state of insanity for a long time, and I still am. It’s not ‘oops, we solved it.’ We want the hostages freed so families can heal.”
