Washington Post claims US hostage held by Hamas has been 'missing' since Oct 7 after parents speak at RNC

The Washington Post is facing backlash for its coverage of the parents of Omer Neutra, a US hostage in Gaza, following their speech at the Republican National Convention (RNC).  

The initial post and link to the article stated that Omer has been “missing” since the October 7 attack on Israel, omitting that he was kidnapped by Hamas terrorists. Additionally, the Post condemned his parents, noting that when they speak publicly, they “don’t talk about Israel’s assault on Gaza that has killed over 38,000 Palestinians.” 

Following criticism for how this was reported, the Washington Post deleted the original post and revised it to say, “His parents have mounted a relentless effort to get him released, speaking to anyone who might be able to support their cause.” Despite the changes on X, the article itself remained unchanged, still containing a paragraph that specifically criticized the parents for not addressing the “ferocity of Israel’s attack.”

The Washington Post appeared to purposefully condemn Omer’s parents for not speaking out against Israel’s actions in the war, despite their primary concern being the safety and well-being of their son after he was kidnapped by Hamas.  

Omer Neutra is one of five US hostages believed to still be held in Gaza. Additionally, the bodies of three other US citizens killed on October 7 have not been returned. In total, around 120 hostages, both living and deceased, remain in Gaza.

Omer’s father, Ronen Neutra, has expressed deep concerns about the situation, stating, “There is a great fear that we are getting to a place of no return,” as negotiations between the two countries have failed and fighting has continued.

During their speech at the RNC, Omer’s parents shared their anguish over the loss of their son. “For 285 long days and nights, Hamas terrorists have been holding Omer in prisons in tunnels underneath Gaza,” said his mother. “He was born in New York City, one month after 9/11. Eight months pregnant, I walked across the Queensborough Bridge towards home that day. And here we are, 23 years later, and he’s the victim of another vile terrorist attack.”

Omer’s father emphasized the broader implications of the attack, stating, “" October 7 was not merely an attack on Israel. This was, and remains, an attack on Americans”.” He added, “President Trump told us personally right after the attack when Omer was taken captive. We know he stands with the American hostages.” 

The speech concluded with a heartfelt message to their son: “Omer, we love you—we will never stop fighting for you,” drawing cheers from the crowd.