Released Hostages (File Images)
Four young women, recently freed from Hamas captivity in Gaza, have reunited with their families after a grueling 15-month ordeal. Kidnapped on October 7, 2023, these women endured extreme hardship, including starvation, physical abuse, and mental torment. Their families have now come forward to share the harrowing details of their captivity, shedding light on the horrific conditions they faced.
According to their families, the women were subjected to severe mistreatment, including forced labor and intimidation. They were reportedly compelled to cook, clean, and perform menial tasks under duress. The hostages were kept in underground tunnels and various buildings, where they endured physical violence. One of the freed captives revealed that they were also coerced into participating in Hamas propaganda videos.
To document their suffering, the women reportedly maintained a diary filled with drawings and written accounts of their experiences. However, they remain hesitant to fully disclose their ordeal, fearing repercussions for other hostages still held in Gaza.
Among the four freed women, three were soldiers abducted from the Nahal Oz army base during Hamas’s assault on Israel. Their families revealed that their living conditions varied during captivity—some were treated marginally better, while others suffered severe deprivation. At times, they received adequate food, but on other occasions, they were left starving.
Agam Berger’s father shared that his daughter was frequently moved between different locations, including tunnels and residential buildings. She was constantly under surveillance by armed guards, who monitored her every move.
The mother of Daniela Gilboa recounted that her daughter was forcibly transferred between multiple locations. Severely weakened during captivity, Daniela reportedly told her mother, “If I had been released two months earlier, I would have been just as frail.” Her parents revealed that she had lost a significant amount of weight and was both physically and mentally drained.
Other parents also reported drastic weight loss among their daughters, expressing deep concern over their deteriorated health. Following their release, the women were provided with substantial nourishment to help them recover.
Several women disclosed that they were forced to participate in Hamas propaganda videos against Israel. They were frequently threatened, adding to their psychological distress. Agam Berger recounted how she was closely monitored at all times and was often required to carry weapons and grenades.
During captivity, Agam refused to work on the Jewish Sabbath, but her captors did not acknowledge her request.
While these women have now returned home, they continue to grapple with the trauma of their captivity. Agam’s father shared, “When Agam came back, she wanted to talk endlessly, but after a day, she suddenly became silent. She was exhausted.”
The families described the reunion as an intensely emotional moment, yet their thoughts remain with the hostages still held in Gaza. They urge continued efforts toward securing the release of all captives and advocate for diplomatic solutions to prevent further abductions.
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