Freed Hostages Share Harrowing Experiences After 15 Months in Captivity

Following a ceasefire agreement, Israeli hostages who were held for over a year by Hamas are beginning to share their heartbreaking stories. The accounts reveal severe deprivation and isolation, yet also showcase the deep bonds of family and hope that helped many endure their suffering.

Efrat Machikawa recently shared the emotional reunion with her uncle, 80-year-old Gadi Moses, after his release from a long and brutal captivity in Gaza. Gadi recounted his harrowing experience, which left him immensely weakened, surviving on meager rations of bread and olive, while being denied basic hygiene needs. His niece expressed, "I have no idea how he survived," highlighting the toll of prolonged loneliness and deprivation.

During his captivity, Gadi dealt with his dire circumstances by challenging himself mentally, calculating math problems to stay engaged. He walked up to six miles daily in his confinement, clinging to hope for reunion with family and worrying about their well-being as his sources of strength.

Gadi was among the first 18 hostages released in a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, following months of conflict that began with a surprise attack in October 2023. The violence resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israelis and left many families mourning, while killing over 47,000 Palestinians, as reported by the Hamas-run health ministry.

Other families of released hostages expressed their relief and concern for their loved ones’ health. Keith Siegel’s niece, Tal Wax, shared her worries about her uncle's deteriorated state, yet praised his enduring spirit, saying he "is still living up to his convictions."

As Gadi returned home, he faced crowds that frightened him into believing his life was ending, a moment compounded by the tension his family felt regarding his return. However, relief washed over Efrat as she embraced him for the first time since his capture, shedding tears of joy and love in the hospital room.

Amidst the joy of reunion, many families still mourn those who are still held captive. Notably, the Bibas family welcomed Yarden while grieving the loss of his wife and children, as Hamas previously indicated they had died due to Israeli airstrikes. Their heartwarming statement reflected both gratitude and heartache, expressing that "a quarter of our heart has returned," while still holding space for those yet to come home.

In a heartening note, former hostages like Doron Steinbrecher began to openly share their journeys of recovery and reintegration, urging families of those still captive to hold onto hope. The release of more hostages remains anticipated in this fragile ceasefire, shedding light on the urgent need for security and peace in the region as communities strive to heal and rebuild.