‘The Chosen’ Star Shahar Isaac, an IDF Veteran, Urges the US To Take Action Against Hamas To Release Remaining Hostages

Shahar Isaac, who portrays Simon Peter in the hit show “The Chosen,” recently spoke in solidarity with the remaining hostages whom Hamas has not returned to Israel amid the ongoing war.

The current military conflict between Israel and Hamas began on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched surprise attacks on Israeli civilians, committing horrific acts of violence and killing more than 1,200 people.

During the attacks, Hamas took 251 hostages and is still holding 59 hostages, 35 of whom are believed dead, according to the Associated Press. 

Isaac, known for his role as Simon Peter, is an Israeli citizen. Prior to being cast in “The Chosen,” he served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as is required of all citizens. Last year, Isaac was called into reserve duty for the IDF, causing him to miss the Los Angeles premiere of Season 4 of “The Chosen.”

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During a recent press event for “The Chosen,” Isaac was wearing a yellow ribbon, which he said “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.”

Referring to 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.”

“Whatever can be done needs to be done,” Isaac said. “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.”

Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began nearly 18 months ago, more than 49,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s health authorities. Much of the Gaza region has been reduced to rubble. 

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Hamas and Israel entered into a ceasefire agreement earlier this year and have engaged in several prisoner-for-hostage swaps.