Story perspectives

Survivor of Hamas Attack Dies by Suicide, Sparks Mental Health Debate

10/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

Roei Shalev, a survivor of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on the Nova music festival, died by suicide two years later.
His body was discovered in a burned car near Tel Aviv, and his final social media post expressed despair, stating, “I just want this suffering to end.”
Shalev witnessed the murders of his girlfriend, Mapal Adam, and best friend, Hili Solomon, during the attack.
He actively commemorated their memories and supported the Nova community, highlighting the mental health crisis among survivors and prompting calls for increased support.

History

Historical Context

The October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel marked a significant escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, reminiscent of the 2014 Gaza War, which resulted in over 2,200 Palestinian and 73 Israeli deaths. The recent violence has reignited discussions about mental health support for trauma survivors, as seen in the psychological impacts faced by individuals like Roei Shalev, highlighting ongoing challenges in Israeli society.

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Story summary

Roei Shalev, a survivor of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on the Nova music festival, died by suicide two years later.
His body was discovered in a burned car near Tel Aviv, and his final social media post expressed despair, stating, “I just want this suffering to end.”
Shalev witnessed the murders of his girlfriend, Mapal Adam, and best friend, Hili Solomon, during the attack.
He actively commemorated their memories and supported the Nova community, highlighting the mental health crisis among survivors and prompting calls for increased support.

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