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Hamas Survivor Shares Harrowing Captivity Experience, Finds Strength

12/5/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Alon Ohel, a survivor of Hamas captivity, described his abduction in Gaza and the brutal conditions he faced.
Ohel said he was chained, starved, and subjected to emotional and physical abuse.
He formed a bond with fellow hostage Eli Sharabi, who provided emotional support.
After release, Ohel faced threats; he wrote letters home, read Harry Potter, and said, "I’m not a victim" after learning of Sharabi’s loss.

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Story summary

Alon Ohel, a survivor of Hamas captivity, described his abduction in Gaza and the brutal conditions he faced.
Ohel said he was chained, starved, and subjected to emotional and physical abuse.
He formed a bond with fellow hostage Eli Sharabi, who provided emotional support.
After release, Ohel faced threats; he wrote letters home, read Harry Potter, and said, "I’m not a victim" after learning of Sharabi’s loss.