World WIZO are calling on their international federations and affiliates to contact local government leaders and anyone of influence in your community and country to call for the immediate release of hostages. “We strongly implore all people of good conscience to take immediate action and do everything in your power to put an end to these atrocities that includes the violent, cruel and inhumane capture and torture of innocent civilians, from numerous nationalities. This is not just a crime committed against the people of Israel; but the global community of humanity as well. We will not rest until we have them returned”, says Anita Friedman, Chairperson of World WIZO. Among those being held captive are women and young girls who have been sexually violated and others who have been injured, some of them critically, and babies and elderly who need urgent medical attention and lifesaving medicines. “It is vital that the international community demand and continue to pressure international aid organizations, human rights organizations, local and federal government to do everything in their power to exert as much pressure and demand as possible,” says Friedman.