GZERO Reports

Israel-Hamas war: "Just bring them back," says brother of 9-year-old Israeli hostage

Israel-Hamas war: "Just bring them back," says brother of 9-year-old Israeli hostage | GZERO World

Few people can grasp the horror that is Roy Zichri's daily life. Ever since his nine-year-old brother was kidnapped by Hamas on October 7th, along with his mother, Keren, and his grandparents, Roy and his family have been doing everything possible to bring the hostages home. But as Ohad Munder-Zichri experienced his ninth birthday somewhere in Gaza under Hamas captors this week, Roy has felt as powerless as the families of the 20 or so other children currently being held hostage (not to mention the 200+ total captives).

In the latest episode of GZERO World with Ian Bremmer, the show's executive producer, Tony Maciulis, asks Roy what message he has for Ohad's Hamas captors. "No message," Roy responds, after an emotional pause. "No message. Just bring them back as soon as possible."

With Hamas' release of a few hostages in the past few days, there is renewed hope for those still being held captive. But as Israel's military continues to bomb Gaza in anticipation of a bloody ground invasion, the future of those hostages remains very much in doubt. In the meantime, Roy wants the world to know how special his young brother is. "Him and I, we have a very strong connection. We have our own jokes and our own games, and he's very lovable and adorable."

Catch GZERO World with Ian Bremmer every week at gzeromedia.com/gzeroworld and on US public television. Check local listings.

More For You

In this episode of Tools and Weapons, Microsoft Vice Chair and President Brad Smith sits down with Ed Policy, President and CEO of the Green Bay Packers, to discuss how purpose-driven leadership and innovation are shaping the future of one of the world’s most iconic sports franchises. Ed shares how technology and community-focused initiatives, from Titletown Tech to health and safety innovations on the field, are transforming not just the game of football, but the economy and culture of Green Bay itself. He explains how combining strategic vision with investment in local startups is keeping talent in the Midwest and creating opportunities that extend far beyond Lambeau Field.

Subscribe and find new episodes monthly, wherever you listen to podcasts.

Egyptians head to the polls to elect a new parliament during the first round of the Egyptian parliamentary elections in Giza, Egypt, on November 10, 2025.
Photo by Islam Safwat/NurPhoto

Egyptians are voting this month in parliamentary elections that aren’t expected to change who’s in charge, but could allow President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to rule beyond 2030.

An injured soldier is transferred to a hospital following a clash between Thai and Cambodian troops over a disputed border area in Sisaket Province,Thailand, December 7, 2025.
Royal Thai Army/Handout via REUTERS

Thailand and Cambodia’s ceasefire is on the verge of collapse. Strikes were launched across their disputed border today, following clashes over the weekend that resulted in the death of a Thai soldier.