Nvidia Engineer Avinatan Returns Home Jensen Huang Celebrates Release After Two Years in Hamas Captivity

Basio badr

ago 2 hours

Avinatan Or, a 32-year-old electrical engineer at Nvidia, has been released after two years in Hamas captivity. His return marks a significant emotional moment for both him and the company. Jensen Huang, Nvidia’s CEO, confirmed Or’s release in a heartfelt message to employees.

Nvidia Engineer Avinatan Returns Home

Or was kidnapped during the October 7 attacks at the Nova music festival near Kibbutz Reim. His partner, Noa Argamani, was rescued in a military operation back in June. The recent release of Avinatan Or follows 738 days of captivity as part of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire and hostage agreement between Israel and Hamas.

Tribute to Avinatan’s Family

In his letter to Nvidia employees, Huang commended Or’s mother, Ditza, for her “strength, courage, and unwavering hope.” He noted the solidarity shown by Nvidia employees in Israel, who came together in vigil, expressing their determination for Or’s safe return.

Avinatan’s Career with Nvidia

Joined Nvidia in 2022.
Earned a degree in electrical engineering from Ben-Gurion University.
Worked as a DFT engineer in the VLSI group focusing on networking.

For Nvidia, Or’s release signals an end to a prolonged period of distress. Huang remarked on the extraordinary bravery of Nvidia employees who defended their communities during the ongoing conflict, while also acknowledging the personal losses endured.

Facing Collective Grief

Huang addressed the collective mourning experienced by Nvidia. He mentioned the loss of colleague Amit Chayut and the family tragedies faced by others within the organization. “Grief knows no borders, no faiths, no divisions. We mourn together, and we hope together,” Huang stated.

Looking Forward to Healing

There is hope that the current ceasefire and the release of hostages could lead to a turning point for the region. Huang expressed optimism for a healing process, stating, “As all hostages return to their families, we witness the close of a painful chapter.”

The letter concluded with a warm welcome back to Avinatan, reflecting both personal relief and corporate unity. It also emphasized the company’s wish for recovery, renewal, and lasting peace for all affected by the war.

Humanitarian Efforts by Nvidia

In December 2023, Nvidia led a significant humanitarian initiative, raising $15 million to support civilians affected by the conflict in Israel and Gaza. This fundraising effort, the largest in the company’s history, included $5 million from employees and $10 million matched by Nvidia.