'The Chosen' Star Shahar Isaac Speaks Out for Hostages Still Held by Hamas
Israeli Actor Shahar Isaac, who plays Simon Peter in "The Chosen," has urged the United States to take action against Hamas to release the remaining hostages. Isaac, a former IDF veteran, expressed solidarity with the hostages, who have been held by Hamas since the terror group attacked Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, CBN News reports. Isaac, who was wearing a yellow ribbon during a recent press event for "The Chosen," said the color "represents the fact that we still have hostages—that we are waiting for a solution."
"These guys are—a year-and-a-half underground," Isaac said. "We know that they're treated in a way that's beyond any humane capture. We know [what] they've gone through. The horrors that they've gone through, to be honest, it's hard to talk about because it's a dagger in our heart, and the wound is still open."
Regarding the hostages, Isaac said, "Some of them are definitely alive and in a condition that needs to be—every day that goes by…every day can save another life," CBN News reported.
"Whatever can be done needs to be done," the actor continued. "We are now in the U.S., so whatever pressure this country can put on all the parties involved, it's something we will be grateful for, something that needs to happen today."
According to Gaza's health authorities, almost 49,000 Palestinians have died since the war between Israel and Hamas began almost 18 months ago. The ongoing battle has resulted in a large portion of Gaza now just ruins.
Despite having a recent ceasefire, Israel ended the ceasefire and launched airstrikes in Gaza following negotiations after the release of the remaining hostages reached an impasse.
"Hamas is responsible for this war," said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on March 18. "It invaded our towns, murdered our people, raped our women, and kidnapped our loved ones. Hamas refused offer after offer to release our hostages."
"While Israel accepted the offer of President Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, Hamas flatly refused to do so," Netanyahu said. "This is why I authorized yesterday the renewal of military action against Hamas."
WATCH: 'Chosen' Star Says Hamas Treatment of Israeli Hostages 'Beyond Inhumane'
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Juan Naharro Gimenez/Contributor
Originally published March 28, 2025.
