Details revealed from latest hostages released from Hamas

Four female Israel Defense Forces (IDF) soldiers who served as observers along the Israeli-Gaza border returned to Israel on Saturday after being held captive by Hamas. The soldiers, who endured 477 days in captivity, shared some of their experiences with Israeli media, describing harsh conditions and uncertainty.

During their time in Gaza, they faced severe deprivation, including periods without food, and endured fear as Israeli military operations took place nearby. Despite the hardships, they supported one another, reinforcing their resilience throughout their captivity.

The strength of the four soldiers was evident during their release ceremony. Hamas orchestrated an elaborate event, seemingly aiming to display control and dominance. However, according to reports in Hebrew media, the soldiers remained composed and determined to show resilience, understanding Hamas intended to humiliate them.

The four women were among those abducted by Hamas during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack, during which they were physically assaulted. Despite their ordeal, they presented a united front upon their release, holding hands, smiling, and waving to the crowd.

Once back in Israel, it became clear their resilience was not a result of humane treatment by their captors. Media reports described how they were prohibited from holding hands or crying when kept together. They suffered food shortages and endured months without showers in unsanitary conditions.

The women were not held together for the entire duration of their captivity. Some were confined in civilian apartments, while others were moved between tunnels and other locations. During their transfer, they were disguised as Palestinian women to avoid detection by Israeli forces.

Shortly before their release, they learned that fellow captive Agam Berger would not be freed with them. One reportedly offered to stay behind with her but was refused by Hamas. According to N12, the four later assured Berger’s family they would visit her in the hospital once she was released.

For the initial weeks of their captivity, the soldiers were forced to stay in civilian apartments, where they were made to cook and clean for their captors, even when they were deprived of food themselves. They also encountered high-ranking Hamas members during their time in captivity.

Despite these conditions, the women found moments of hope. They occasionally heard Israeli radio broadcasts or saw Al Jazeera reports covering the hostage demonstrations in Israel, reassuring them that efforts were being made to secure their release.