Latest news with #RubyChen
The National
16-05-2025
- Politics
- The National
We deserve closure, father of Gaza hostage says
Ruby Chen has spent 587 days waiting for his son Itay, 19, to come home. An Israeli-German-American soldier serving in the Israeli military, Itay was taken hostage by Hamas -led militants during the October 7, 2023, assault on southern Israel. His father now divides his time between grief and diplomacy, appealing to leaders, from Washington to Doha, for help in bringing him home. 'My family are Holocaust survivors,' Mr Chen told the The National, as he prepared to speak before the UN Security Council on the issue of hostages held in Gaza. 'They understand the magnitude of having a Jewish state to protect us. Itay could have gone to college, could have been in New York, but he chose to serve.' He said he met many times with the US special envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff – 'a man with a large heart'. 'He understands the issues of the hostages as he himself lost his son in different circumstances, but he understands what it means to be a parent and losing a child,' said Mr Chen. 'He has promised to us that: 'I will not disappoint you, and I will not end this mission until you will be reunited with Itay as well as the other US families'.' Mr Chen emphasised the importance of sustained international efforts to bring the remaining hostages home. 'We need the help of the US's international partners such as the UAE, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi, to broker a deal which will decouple the bigger political issue that has been going on for decades," he explained. "There are still 58 hostages, including four Americans, as well as the humanitarian crisis of the people of Gaza who have been used as human shields by a terrorist organisation for far too long." His comments come after hostage Edan Alexander was released by Hamas, reportedly as a goodwill gesture towards US President Donald Trump, who is visiting the Gulf this week. Mr Chen also urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to heed public opinion on the war. 'Four polls show the Israeli public supports a ceasefire to get the last hostage home. Not hostages, but the last hostage,' he stressed. On March 24, Mr Chen and his wife were notified by the Israeli military that Itay probably did not survive the October 7 attack. 'For over 19 months, Hamas have not been willing to acknowledge that he is in their possession … what is his physical status? I think this is the lowest form of terrorist psychological warfare imaginable,' Mr Chen told the Security Council at a special meeting on the protection of civilians in armed conflict, which addresses the obligation of returning hostage remains. 'We are collateral damage,' Mr Chen said. 'We are not the sons or daughters of prime ministers. But we deserve comfort. We deserve closure.' For now, Mr Chen and his family remain stuck, as he describes it, 'in an alternative universe", fighting for one thing: 'to be reunited' with Itay. When asked what he would say if given the chance to speak directly to Hamas, he said: 'I would say to them that they have done bad things. We need to see a better future for everybody.' He added: 'This war has gone on far too long. We need to find a compromise … a way to be together. We are all children of the same God. We are descendants of Abraham, all of us.' Mr Chen said any aspiration by Hamas to take part in the international community must begin with the release of the hostages captives. 'If they indeed wish to be part of the future, then they need to release at least the hostages and negotiate in good faith for a better future for the Palestinian people.'
Scoop
15-05-2025
- Politics
- Scoop
‘We Are Still Waiting For Our Loved Ones': Families Of The Abducted Speak Out
15 May 2025 Each called for justice under international law and for perpetrators to be held accountable. Sung-Eui Lee, daughter of a South Korean man abducted by North Korean forces during the Korean War, and Ruby Chen, father of an Israeli soldier taken by Hamas during the 7 October 2023 attacks on Israel, spoke in the Security Council. Together they called for resolution 2474 to be upheld, which affirms the right of families to know the fate of missing relatives in armed conflict. 75-year-long wait 'For 75 years, I've been waiting for my father to come back,' said Ms. Lee, who was just 18 months old when her father, prosecutor Jong-Ryong Lee, was forcibly taken to North Korea. ' We still do not know where he is, whether he is alive or dead. This is the first and the largest case of enforced disappearance, and it remains unresolved.' This is an ongoing crime – Sung-Eui Lee, daughter of Jong Ryong Lee Representing the Korean War Abductees Family Union, she described decades of effort to document the abductions and press for answers, efforts often met with silence from Pyongyang. An ongoing crime 'In spite of all the clear evidence including the living witnesses like us, the DPRK (Democratic People's Republic of Korea – as North Korea is formally known) has never admitted their abduction crime. This is an ongoing crime, the first and the largest case of enforced disappearance,' Ms. Lee said. She urged the international community to hold North Korea accountable, including by referring the case to the International Criminal Court (ICC), and to support the repatriation or identification of the remains of the nearly 100,000 others missing. 'This is an ongoing crime,' she said. ' If this case was properly resolved…subsequent kidnapping crimes in Japan, Thailand, Romania – could have been prevented. ' Not knowing Speaking next, Ruby Chen spoke of the pain of not knowing the fate of his son, Itay Chen – a joint US-German-Israeli national – after being captured by Hamas. The 19-year-old soldier was stationed near the Gaza border when he and his tank crew were attacked and taken on 7 October 2023. For 587 days, we have waited – Ruby Chen, father of Itay Chen 'For 587 days, we have waited,' Mr. Chen said. ' In March, the Israeli military told us Itay likely did not survive. But Hamas refuses to confirm and refuses to return him – even in death. ' He described the refusal to acknowledge or release the bodies of deceased hostages as a form of 'slow psychological torture,' not only for his family but for dozens of others. Families deserve closure ' What kind of human beings take deceased people and use them as negotiation chips,' he said, 'Who denies the deceased the last basic human dignity that they deserve?' Mr. Chen called for the appointment of a dedicated UN special representative or envoy for hostage affairs and address the broad range violations and harms associated with hostage taking. 'There must be consequences,' Chen said. 'This isn't just a political issue – it's a humanitarian one. Families deserve closure. Hostage-taking must become a liability, not a strategic asset. ' Resolution 2474 The testimonies were delivered during a Security Council session dedicated to missing persons in armed conflict. Resolution 2474, adopted unanimously in 2019, obliges all parties in conflict to take all appropriate measures to account for the missing, enable the return of their remains, and to provide families with information on their loved ones' fate. Also speaking in the Council, Khaled Khiari, Assistant Secretary-General at the UN Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, warned that the crisis of missing persons continues to deepen in conflicts worldwide. In Ukraine, large numbers of civilians – including children – remain unaccounted for in areas under Russian occupation. In Myanmar, disappearances have surged since the 2021 military coup, amid a lack of due process. In Syria, the missing persons crisis has become a defining feature of the conflict, Mr. Khiari said, noting also that questions remain over the fate of those missing from the 1991 Gulf War, as well as the enduring impacts on families and communities in Cyprus. Let us move on Both speakers underscored the need for the Security Council deliver on the resolution's promise. 'Time is running short,' Ms. Lee told ambassadors. ' Most siblings and spouses of the abductees have already passed away. We, the children, are growing old. There is not much time left.' Mr. Chen echoed her plea: 'I request your support to enable families of this tragic fate, such as mine, have closure and the ability to move on to the next sad chapter in life. '
Scoop
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Doc Edge Names 2025 Superhero And Welcomes First International Guests
Press Release – Elephant Publicity Ruby Chen, Co-Founder and CEO of CNEX Foundation, has been named the 2025 Doc Edge Superhero, an honour recognising her outstanding contribution to global documentary filmmaking. She will receive the award at the Doc Edge Awards on 3 July and deliver a keynote address at the Doc Edge Forum. Chen, a tireless champion for documentary filmmakers in the Asia-Pacific region, has played a pivotal role in the global visibility of Chinese and Asian documentaries. 'As we all believe in the importance of documentaries and the power of moving visuals, I am honoured to be part of this circle of professionals who work hard to create impact and inspire people of all walks to lead their lives with positive energy,' says Ruby Chen. Alex Lee, Director of Doc Edge, adds, 'Ruby Chen exemplifies the spirit of documentary filmmaking—courageous, transformative, and truthful. Her dedication to nurturing talent and promoting documentary in the Asia-Pacific region has facilitated the rise of Asian and Chinese documentary makers globally—aligning perfectly with the ethos of Doc Edge.' Doc Edge Industry 2025: Courage, Truth, and Transformation Now in its 20th edition, Doc Edge Industry returns 30 June – 3 July 2025 at the Grand Millennium Auckland, continuing its legacy as the Asia-Pacific hub for documentary innovation. Held as part of the Oscar®-qualifying Doc Edge Festival, the four-day event offers a recharged user experience for global documentary professionals with a focus on connection, creativity, and career development. Key Programme Highlights: Pitch | Wayfinding (30 June – 1 July): A premier opportunity for filmmakers to present their projects in development to local and international decision-makers, with mentorship and access to global festivals and markets. It spotlights both local and international projects, alongside a Rough Cuts session for Docs-in-Progress, offering a dynamic, real-time feedback loop from industry experts. Forum (2 – 3 July): A platform for emerging and established storytellers and industry leaders to exchange ideas and advance their careers. It features a meticulously crafted programme, designed to immerse participants in a space where reflection, collaboration, and engagement thrive. With world-class speakers, thought-provoking sessions, and interactive opportunities, Forum participants will help shape the future of documentary. Market (30 June – 3 July): Facilitates connections between projects and potential buyers to enhance distribution and acquisition opportunities. Awards (3 July): Celebrates outstanding documentaries, with winners of Best International and Best NZ Film automatically qualifying for Oscar® consideration. Esteemed International Speakers: Courtney Sexton – Emmy-winning producer and EVP at Jigsaw Productions, known for RBG, Navalny, and Gabby Giffords Won't Back Down. Formerly with CNN Films and Participant Media. Ryan Harrington – Emmy and Peabody Award-winning producer and Director of Film Programming at Jacob Burns Film Center. He is also co-founder of BD4, a new production label focused on commercially-driven documentary storytelling. More international and local guests will be announced in May, along with the full Doc Edge Industry 2025 programme. Early Bird Passes Available Now Secure your place at Doc Edge Industry 2025 with 50% off early bird passes until 9 May. Spaces are limited. Visit to book and stay updated via Doc Edge's social channels. The full Doc Edge Festival programme and tickets will be live from 9 May, with tickets available via the festival's website. 2025 KEY FESTIVAL DATES & VENUES Industry: 30 June – 3 July, Grand Millennium Auckland Auckland: 25 June – 13 July, Bridgeway Cinema, The Capitol Cinema, SkyCity Theatre and Silo 6 Wellington: 16 – 27 July, The Roxy Cinema Christchurch: 16 – 27 July, Lumiere Cinemas, Christchurch Art Gallery, Tūranga Central Library, and the University of Canterbury Awards: 3 July, Grand Millennium Auckland
Scoop
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Scoop
Doc Edge Names 2025 Superhero And Welcomes First International Guests
Ruby Chen, Co-Founder and CEO of CNEX Foundation, has been named the 2025 Doc Edge Superhero, an honour recognising her outstanding contribution to global documentary filmmaking. She will receive the award at the Doc Edge Awards on 3 July and deliver a keynote address at the Doc Edge Forum. Chen, a tireless champion for documentary filmmakers in the Asia-Pacific region, has played a pivotal role in the global visibility of Chinese and Asian documentaries. 'As we all believe in the importance of documentaries and the power of moving visuals, I am honoured to be part of this circle of professionals who work hard to create impact and inspire people of all walks to lead their lives with positive energy,' says Ruby Chen. Alex Lee, Director of Doc Edge, adds, 'Ruby Chen exemplifies the spirit of documentary filmmaking—courageous, transformative, and truthful. Her dedication to nurturing talent and promoting documentary in the Asia-Pacific region has facilitated the rise of Asian and Chinese documentary makers globally—aligning perfectly with the ethos of Doc Edge.' Doc Edge Industry 2025: Courage, Truth, and Transformation Now in its 20th edition, Doc Edge Industry returns 30 June – 3 July 2025 at the Grand Millennium Auckland, continuing its legacy as the Asia-Pacific hub for documentary innovation. Held as part of the Oscar®-qualifying Doc Edge Festival, the four-day event offers a recharged user experience for global documentary professionals with a focus on connection, creativity, and career development. Key Programme Highlights: Pitch | Wayfinding (30 June – 1 July): A premier opportunity for filmmakers to present their projects in development to local and international decision-makers, with mentorship and access to global festivals and markets. It spotlights both local and international projects, alongside a Rough Cuts session for Docs-in-Progress, offering a dynamic, real-time feedback loop from industry experts. Forum (2 – 3 July): A platform for emerging and established storytellers and industry leaders to exchange ideas and advance their careers. It features a meticulously crafted programme, designed to immerse participants in a space where reflection, collaboration, and engagement thrive. With world-class speakers, thought-provoking sessions, and interactive opportunities, Forum participants will help shape the future of documentary. Market (30 June – 3 July): Facilitates connections between projects and potential buyers to enhance distribution and acquisition opportunities. Awards (3 July): Celebrates outstanding documentaries, with winners of Best International and Best NZ Film automatically qualifying for Oscar® consideration. Esteemed International Speakers: Courtney Sexton – Emmy-winning producer and EVP at Jigsaw Productions, known for RBG, Navalny, and Gabby Giffords Won't Back Down. Formerly with CNN Films and Participant Media. Ryan Harrington – Emmy and Peabody Award-winning producer and Director of Film Programming at Jacob Burns Film Center. He is also co-founder of BD4, a new production label focused on commercially-driven documentary storytelling. More international and local guests will be announced in May, along with the full Doc Edge Industry 2025 programme. Early Bird Passes Available Now Secure your place at Doc Edge Industry 2025 with 50% off early bird passes until 9 May. Spaces are limited. Visit to book and stay updated via Doc Edge's social channels. The full Doc Edge Festival programme and tickets will be live from 9 May, with tickets available via the festival's website. 2025 KEY FESTIVAL DATES & VENUES Industry: 30 June – 3 July, Grand Millennium Auckland Wellington: 16 – 27 July, The Roxy Cinema Christchurch: 16 – 27 July, Lumiere Cinemas, Christchurch Art Gallery, Tūranga Central Library, and the University of Canterbury Awards: 3 July, Grand Millennium Auckland
CBS News
26-03-2025
- Politics
- CBS News
Parents of American-Israeli soldier who died in Oct. 7 attack beg Trump administration to bring his body home
As ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas have grinded to a halt , the parents of an American citizen whose body is still being held in Gaza are begging the Trump administration to bring him home. Itay Chen , 19, was kidnapped by Hamas during the Oct. 7 terror attack in Israel and thought to be alive. Israeli Defense Forces later confirmed Chen was murdered that day and his body was taken into Gaza, where it still remains. January's U.S.-brokered ceasefire brought parents Hagit and Ruby Chen hope. Twenty-five more hostages were released as part of that deal, which also included plans to release all remaining hostages. But the Chens' hope faded when Israel resumed bombing Hamas targets in Gaza on March 19 . "We indeed were devastated," father Ruby Chen said. "We're back to square one. Again, negotiations not of the last hostage, but OK, let's talk about the next five hostages." The Chens say the families of the five remaining American hostages feel like nothing more than collateral damage – their loved ones being held hostage while world leaders try to solve the decades-long conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. They are begging the Trump administration to prioritize the five American citizens. "How is it that it's an asset, and it's not a liability, that terrorists are holding U.S. citizens any place in the world?" Ruby Chen said. "We need to keep them focused. Eye on the ball. You have five U.S. citizens out of the 59 hostages. You need to find a way." "There is no option to give up. It's our son," mother Hagit Chen said. Hagit Chen describes one of the last conversations she had with her son. "He told me that he wanted to get married, so I told him, 'Itay, you are so young. You are only 19. Already getting married?' And he said, 'Yes, I found the one,'" Hagit Chen said. The Chens are meeting with leaders at the United Nations on Wednesday evening. They want to see military options explored as well as new sanctions to increase pressure on Hamas to release the five remaining Americans.
