Washington, D.C. — First Lady Melania Trump met privately at the White House on Tuesday with freed American-Israeli hostage Keith Siegel, reflecting on a series of events that began with her outreach to his wife more than a year earlier.
The meeting followed an initial sit-down in January 2025 between the First Lady and Aviva Siegel, which advocates say helped draw national attention to Keith Siegel’s captivity and ultimately contributed to diplomatic efforts leading to his release from Hamas.
“That first meeting with Aviva Siegel served as a catalyst to the events leading up to Keith’s freedom,” Melania Trump said. “It was clear that day in New York City that Aviva Siegel’s human spirit would move mountains to rescue her husband, Keith.”
Keith Siegel, who was held for more than a year, said he was deeply moved to learn of the First Lady’s involvement while he remained in captivity. “I was deeply moved to hear from the First Lady about the meetings she held with my wife, Aviva, and about the strength and support she gave to the families of the hostages throughout that difficult journey,” he said.
Aviva Siegel also attended Tuesday’s meeting, describing it as a moment of closure after years of uncertainty. “I want to express my deepest gratitude to the First Lady Melania Trump,” she said. “Meeting again today feels profoundly full circle. I am endlessly grateful for Mrs. Trump’s steadfast support over these painful two years.”
During their initial encounter, Aviva Siegel presented the First Lady with a handmade book detailing her husband’s story and the events surrounding the October 7, 2023, attacks. Melania Trump later shared the book and Keith Siegel’s account with Donald Trump, according to those familiar with the meeting.
Keith Siegel said he remains thankful for the efforts made on his behalf. “I am grateful to the First Lady and to the President for their tremendous efforts to secure the return of the hostages, and my own return,” he said.
The White House meeting underscored the role of personal advocacy and sustained attention in high-profile hostage cases, as families and officials continue to press for the release of remaining captives.
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