Former captives say they are learning to value ordinary moments after the October 7 attack, while many continue to cope with captivity’s effects.
Former Israeli hostages taken during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack say captivity changed how they see everyday life and that recovery continues long after release. The attack killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages to Gaza. Most were freed in exchanges for Palestinian prisoners during ceasefires, but dozens did not survive.
Emily Damari, wounded and abducted from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, was released in January 2025. She says she is now grateful for ordinary things such as being home with family, drinking cold water and opening the refrigerator. Eli Sharabi spent 491 days in captivity. His wife, two daughters and brother were killed. After his release in February 2025, he helped establish a centre in Ashkelon for families coping with trauma and disabilities.
Hagar Brodutch was freed with her three children during a brief truce in November 2023. She says captivity’s effects are especially difficult for children and may remain for years. Brodutch has begun pastry classes as she tries to find a new direction and build a future.
Aviva Siegel was released in November 2023, while her husband Keith remained captive until February 2025. She campaigned for the release of hostages while he was held. Now, she says, family and the solidarity of strangers help sustain her. Their accounts describe different paths to recovery but underline that release alone does not end captivity’s consequences.