On October 7, 2023, Hamas unleashed a devastating attack on southern Israel, forever altering the landscape of the region. This act of terror, unprecedented in Israel’s modern history, resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of 251 individuals, many of whom remain captive. For those who have been released, their ordeal has left lasting scars, a burden of guilt, and a profound sense of loss. The families of those still held captive are consumed by worry and desperation, clinging to hope for their loved ones’ safe return.
As the world marks the one-year anniversary of the attacks, we delve into the stories of five hostages, each bearing witness to the horrors they endured and the lingering impact on their lives.
Saving Abigail
Three-year-old Abigail Mor Edan experienced trauma that no child should ever face. During the Hamas attack, she was at home with her parents when militants stormed their community. Her father shielded her, but he was shot and fell on top of her. Abigail, covered in blood, crawled out from under her father’s body and sought refuge with neighbors. However, she was later taken hostage and spent 51 days in captivity. She was released during a brief ceasefire, becoming the first American hostage to return home. The effort to secure her release involved the highest levels of diplomacy, with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris personally involved.
Abigail’s ordeal was truly horrific. She witnessed her mother’s murder, was starved, and deprived of basic necessities. Her experience has left a lasting impact, and while she lives with her aunt, uncle, and cousins, she will never be able to return to her former home.
Noa Argamani Lives with the Horror
Noa Argamani, a 25-year-old woman, was taken hostage from the Nova music festival. Video footage captured her screaming ‘Don’t kill me’ as she was driven away on a motorcycle. She was rescued by IDF forces in a daring operation eight months later. Noa’s captivity was marked by fear, deprivation, and uncertainty. She describes the experience as a living nightmare, haunted by the thought that it might be her last night. Noa’s mother passed away three weeks after her release, leaving her heartbroken. Despite being home, Noa continues to advocate for the release of the remaining hostages, including her partner. She longs for peace, quiet, and the company of loved ones.
Mia Schem’s 54 Days of Captivity
For Mia Schem, a French-Israeli, the Nova music festival became a nightmare. She was shot in the arm and taken hostage, spending 54 days in captivity. The experience left her struggling with epilepsy, insomnia, and deep-seated guilt. She describes her time as a hostage as a living hell, marked by fear, deprivation, and emotional manipulation. Mia’s experience highlights the psychological toll of captivity, the lingering effects of trauma, and the burden of guilt that accompanies survival.
Shani Louk’s Tragic Fate
Shani Louk, a 22-year-old Israeli-German, was also taken hostage at the Nova music festival. Footage of her being seized and brought into Gaza became a symbol of the attack. Months later, IDF commandos confirmed that Shani’s body had been found in Gaza. Her parents spoke of her vibrant spirit and her love of life, a spirit that was tragically cut short.
The Killing of Hersh Goldberg-Polin
Hersh Goldberg-Polin, a 23-year-old Israeli-American, was also at the Nova music festival when it was attacked. Video footage shows him injured by a grenade blast and being taken hostage. His parents, who became prominent advocates for the release of all hostages, eventually received the devastating news that his body had been found. Hersh’s story, along with those of other hostages who perished, serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of this conflict.
The stories of these five individuals offer a glimpse into the human cost of the Hamas attack. Their experiences highlight the enduring impact of trauma, the importance of resilience, and the ongoing struggle to find hope in the face of unimaginable suffering.
