Kidnapping of Ariel Cunio and Arbel Yehud

On October 7, 2023, Ariel Cunio and his girlfriend Arbel Yehud were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nir Oz by Hamas terrorists during a large-scale attack in southern Israel. Ariel, the youngest of four Cunio brothers, and Arbel were captured alongside several family members, including Ariel's brother David, his wife Sharon, and their three-year-old twins.

Early Life and Personal Background
Ariel Cunio was born and raised at Kibbutz Nir Oz. He served in a key role in the IDF, earning the admiration of his soldiers for his quiet charisma and leadership. After completing his army service, Ariel and Arbel traveled to South America and Central America. Upon returning to Israel, Ariel enrolled as a computer science major and started working in the hi-tech sector. Ariel also worked as a lifeguard at the Kibbutz pool and had a passion for drawing during his youth.

October 7, 2023 Abduction
On the morning of October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists infiltrated Kibbutz Nir Oz. Ariel and Arbel were captured from their home, having recently returned from their trip abroad and adopted a puppy weeks earlier. Ariel managed to send a message to his brother, Eitan, saying, "We are in a horror film." Ariel, Arbel, and several family members were taken captive and transported to Gaza.

Family Impact and Appeal
Ariel's grandmother, Ester Cunio, who narrowly avoided abduction by starting a conversation with the terrorists about football star Lionel Messi, is now calling on Messi to help secure the release of her grandsons and other hostages. Six family members, including three children and their mothers, were released in November 2023, but Ariel and David remain captive.

Yehi Yahud, father of Dolev and Arbel Yehud, expressed deep concerns for both his children. Dolev, who has Hashimoto's thyroiditis, does not have his necessary medication, putting his health in severe danger. Arbel's fate is equally worrying, given the potential for mental, physical, or sexual abuse.

Ariel's mother, Silvia Cunio, shared her anguish over the separation of her family. Ariel and Arbel had been together for five years, and their relationship is significant to both families. Ariel's older brother, David, was kidnapped along with his wife, Sharon, and their daughters, Emma and Yuli. The girls frequently ask about their father's return, highlighting the ongoing emotional toll on the family.