American citizen and Chapel Hill, North Carolina, native Keith Siegel and his wife, Aviva Siegel, met with First Lady Melania Trump at the White House this week, focusing on healing, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to helping others after their captivity in Gaza.
The Siegels were among more than 250 people taken hostage by Hamas during the Oct. 7, 2023, terrorist attack on Israel. Keith was held for 451 days, while Aviva was imprisoned for 51 days before being released.
Speaking in the Blue Room at the White House, the couple described how Melania Trump developed a personal relationship with Aviva before Keith’s release and helped bring attention to their case.
They also credited President Donald Trump with playing a key role in securing Keith’s freedom shortly after returning to office.
Marking one year since his release, Keith told reporters that he is now focused on rebuilding his life and helping others who are suffering.
“I’ve committed myself to working with Israel and an Israeli humanitarian organization to help restore hope,” Keith said. “Giving back is a vital part of my recovery and rehabilitation.”
He and Aviva recently traveled to Kenya, where an Israeli aid group provides clean water, sanitation, hygiene services, and education to refugees.
“The work of Israel has inspired me and given me a new sense of purpose,” Keith said. “What a remarkable accomplishment, bringing hostages home. Now we have a mission to help others who are struggling.”
“This is our new journey,” he added.
Melania Trump said her initial meeting with Aviva in New York City helped set in motion efforts that eventually led to Keith’s release.
“That first meeting with Aviva Siegel served as a catalyst to the events leading up to Keith’s freedom,” the first lady said. “It was clear that her human spirit would move mountains to rescue her husband.”
Melania said the meeting strengthened her resolve to raise the issue directly with President Trump and push for the return of all remaining hostages.
Aviva said the encounter gave her renewed hope during one of the darkest periods of her life.
“When we met, you gave me so much hope,” Aviva told the first lady. “I could feel your heart with me, and I knew you would share our story with the president.”
During their first meeting, Aviva presented Melania Trump with a handmade book detailing her husband’s captivity and the events of Oct. 7. She later dedicated the book to her grandchildren.
Keith Siegel was one of 12 Americans captured during the Hamas attack.
The last known surviving American hostage, Edan Alexander of New Jersey, was released on May 12, 2024, after being held for 584 days.
Now free, the Siegels say they are determined to use their experience to advocate for victims of terrorism and support humanitarian causes around the world.
“We survived something unimaginable,” Keith said. “Now our responsibility is to help others find hope.”
