Ilana Gritzewsky

Illana is an Israeli-Mexican citizen. She is originally from Quintana Roo, Mexico, and made aliyah 14 years ago under the “Na’ale” program (An educational program designed to bring Jewish youth to Israel during their high school years).
Ilana and her partner Matan Zanguaker (24) used to spend every Friday night with the Zangaukers in Ofakim. Ilana’s decision to move to Israel, where her parents and sister later joined her, and her relationship with an Israeli, were seen as significant achievements, symbolizing her integration into Israeli society. Even though Mexican food remained Ilana's favorite and she often flies there, Israel became her home.
Ilana and Matan were kidnapped on Saturday October 7 from their home on Kibbutz Nir Oz by Hamas terrorists .
llana's family, Israeli-Mexican citizens, turned to Mexican authorities with a request for assistance in her swift release from Hamas captivity.
Ilana was freed on November 30th, after spending 55 days in Hamas captivity, following a temporary cease-fire agreement.