(TJV NEWS) Liri Albag, a former hostage held by Hamas, plans to return to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), her father confirmed on Wednesday. She was kidnapped from the Nahal Oz outpost, where she served as a surveillance operator. After 477 days in captivity, she was freed in February during a ceasefire deal.

Her father, Eli Albag, spoke to Ynet and shared that Liri made her decision “two or three weeks ago.” He explained that she feels a strong need to reconnect with the army. “She wants to experience the IDF again. She wants to feel a part of it and take back what was stolen,” he said.

According to World Israel News, her return is part of her healing. “They took her freedom in the lowest place on earth. Now she wants to reclaim her life and move forward,” Eli said.

Liri is already in touch with IDF officials. Her goal is to serve in a meaningful role. “We keep counting the days,” her father added. “Liri has been given a second chance. But there are still 58 hostages. We won’t stop fighting for them.”

Earlier this week, Liri faced an unexpected delay when she arrived in New York. U.S. immigration officers detained her for an hour at JFK Airport. She was traveling with her family for a vacation.

Officials stopped her because her status as a released hostage was not updated in U.S. immigration systems. “They thought someone might be using her identity,” Eli explained.

He added that it was all resolved once they confirmed who she was. “It appeared she was still listed as captive in their system,” he said.

Despite the confusion, Liri and her family continued with their plans. Now, her focus is on returning to service and helping bring home those still held hostage.