Story perspectives

Former Hostage Shares Harrowing Hamas Captivity Experience

11/19/2025

Center

Or's Captivity Insights

Avinatan Or described his captivity by Hamas at a Washington, DC conference, detailing a failed escape after weeks of tunnel digging and two years in isolation.
He recounted severe beatings after his escape was discovered.
Or emphasized patience and common ground with captors as keys to survival.
Fellow former hostages, including Evyatar David, expressed hope for healing and planned to meet U.S. President Donald Trump after release during a ceasefire.

Left

Hostages Uphold Faith

Two former hostages, Matan Angrest and Segev Kalfon, spoke at a Jerusalem gathering about observing Shabbat while held by Hamas in Gaza.
Angrest described maintaining his Jewish identity through prayer and rituals, using a small prayer book and improvising with resources for Kiddush.
Kalfon emphasized preserving Shabbat traditions in captivity, recalling that they sang songs and recited blessings over water.
Their testimonies highlight the resilience of faith amid adversity.

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Or's Captivity Insights

Avinatan Or described his captivity by Hamas at a Washington, DC conference, detailing a failed escape after weeks of tunnel digging and two years in isolation.
He recounted severe beatings after his escape was discovered.
Or emphasized patience and common ground with captors as keys to survival.
Fellow former hostages, including Evyatar David, expressed hope for healing and planned to meet U.S. President Donald Trump after release during a ceasefire.

1 / 2