Full Breakdown
Matan Angrest's Harrowing Experience in Hamas Captivity
2/27/2026, 8:45:56 AM
Torture and Interrogation in Captivity
Matan Angrest, a former Israeli soldier, recounted his traumatic experience as a hostage of Hamas during an interview on Channel 12's investigative program, 'Uvda.' Angrest, who served in a specialized tank unit, was captured on October 7, 2023, when his tank was attacked near the Gaza border. He was the sole survivor of his crew, which included Capt. Daniel Perez, St.-Sgt. Itay Chen, and Sgt. Tomer Leibovitz, all of whom were killed during the assault. Angrest described waking up in captivity with severe injuries, including a burned hand, and being subjected to brutal torture, including electrocution. "I could feel myself being electrocuted. I screamed in a pain that is impossible to describe," he stated, detailing the extreme measures taken by his captors to extract classified information from him.
The Psychological Toll of Captivity
During his time in captivity, Angrest was held alone for weeks before being joined by fellow hostage Gali Berman. He expressed feelings of fear and isolation, often confiding in Berman about his anxieties regarding their treatment. Angrest revealed that he learned about the deaths of his crewmates through terrorist radio communications, which deepened his emotional distress. "I locked myself in a room alone... I just thought about them and all of our experiences," he recalled.
The October 7 Massacre
Angrest provided a detailed account of the events leading up to his capture during the October 7 massacre. He described the chaos as terrorists infiltrated their outpost, recalling the moment when he and his crew were ordered to mobilize their tank in response to the attack. "Our goal is that there will be no kidnapping," Capt. Perez had warned his crew, a statement that foreshadowed the tragic outcome of the day. Angrest noted the difficult decisions they faced as they confronted waves of attackers, ultimately leading to the loss of his comrades.
Release from Captivity
After 738 days in captivity, Angrest was unexpectedly released in October 2025. He described the moment of his release as surprising, stating, "They took Gili [Berman] and me somewhere while blindfolded... and suddenly we saw [fellow hostages] Alon Ohel and Guy Gilboa-Dalal." His return marked the end of a harrowing ordeal that left lasting psychological scars.
Official Statements & Responses
Angrest's testimony has drawn attention to the brutal tactics employed by Hamas during interrogations. His experiences highlight the ongoing conflict and the human cost of warfare in the region. The Israeli government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its soldiers and addressing the threats posed by terrorist organizations.
Criticism & Opposition
While Angrest's account sheds light on the horrors of captivity, it also raises questions about the broader implications of military engagement in Gaza. Critics argue that the cycle of violence perpetuated by such conflicts leads to further suffering for both soldiers and civilians. The need for diplomatic solutions remains a contentious topic among policymakers and analysts.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Someone came to me with two cables and put them on my wound and just turned (a machine) on. I could feel myself being electrocuted. I screamed in a pain that is impossible to describe,” — Matan Angrest, Former Hostage
- “I locked myself in a room alone [after finding out], you understand that it's over. I just thought about them and all of our experiences.” — Matan Angrest, Former Hostage
- “'Our goal is that there will be no kidnapping,' I don't know how he said that - how he predicted the future,” — Capt. Daniel Perez, Commanding Officer
Angrest's harrowing testimony serves as a stark reminder of the realities faced by those caught in the crossfire of conflict, emphasizing the urgent need for dialogue and resolution in the region.
