Starving for Freedom: The Gripping Accounts of Freed Hamas Hostages

The families of recently freed Israeli hostages reveal harrowing details of starvation, abuse, and psychological intimidation endured during 15 months of captivity by Hamas in Gaza.

In the aftermath of the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, families are now uncovering the tragic experiences faced by their daughters during an extended period of captivity. Orly Gilboa shared that her daughter Daniella was only properly nourished in the lead-up to her release. Reports from parents describe the severe abuse the hostages experienced, including deprivation of food, threats from armed guards, and forced participation in propaganda videos—even faking death for a recording.

The four young women, all associated with the military, were frequently transferred between locations, mostly underground tunnels and hideouts, where conditions dramatically varied. Shlomi Berger, father of one hostage, Agam, highlighted the inconsistency in their treatment, revealing that their sustenance was inadequate during much of their captivity.

"They were moved between locations but rarely saw sunlight," he commented as he recalled how Agam witnessed other hostages suffering physical violence. Despite their dire situation, the hostages supported one another—drawing, sharing stories, and maintaining diaries to document their experiences.

While the women have yet to speak on their plight publicly, their parents shared chilling accounts of their abuse. Meirav Leshem Gonen's daughter Roman was taken from the infamous Nova music festival and suffered severe weight loss and medical neglect during captivity. Her reunion with her family post-truce was laced with emotional trepidation.

Moreover, the psychological trauma of captivity—particularly the horrific video that suggested Daniella had been killed—haunts her family. They will continue advocating for an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the hostage crisis while calling for maintaining the ceasefire to protect those still in captivity.

Families are determined to piece together the fragmented memories of the past 15 months, while the freed hostages are now finding their footing back home—each coping in their own way, whether through drawing or simply cherishing the mundane moments they had longed for.

As the dust settles from the chaotic conflict, the emphasis remains on healing, remembrance, and the hope of future peace between the affected communities.