What it’s about
Idit Ohel shares the emotional toll of her son Alon’s kidnapping during the October 7 Nova Music Festival. Over 290 days in captivity, she describes ongoing struggles and calls for greater governmental action to return Israeli hostages from Gaza.
Why it matters
Alon Ohel’s story sheds light on the human impact of ongoing conflicts and the perceived lapses in government responses. It calls for national unity and increased efforts from Israeli leadership to rescue and return hostages, placing human lives above politics.
TML: Can you tell us about Alon?
Idit Ohel: “Alon is just a beautiful person, always smiling and highly sociable. He loves gourmet food, cars, and playing the piano. He was at the NOVA party to pursue music studies at Rimon School of Music. On his 23rd birthday, he was in Gaza as a hostage.”
TML: Can you tell us what you experienced on October 7?
Idit Ohel: “We received a WhatsApp message from Alon, who said he was in a bomb shelter. But that was the last we heard; many were harmed, yet Alon’s phone was eventually found in Soroka Hospital. It’s confirmed Alon was kidnapped alive, with footage verifying this.”
TML: Since Alon was kidnapped on October 7, have you had any news from him?
Idit Ohel: “No hostages despite being freed saw Alon or those he was with. It’s devastating not having any updates on his status.”
TML: How much support are you getting from the government?
Idit Ohel: “Social workers are helpful, but politicians offer limited support. Meetings with them yield little as politics seem to outweigh the will to save hostages. It’s been almost 10 months and it’s exhausting.”
TML: Are you dissatisfied with the government’s commitment to returning hostages?
Idit Ohel: “It’s disheartening to feel politics trumps citizen welfare. This isn’t just about us; the government must prioritize bringing our hostages home for the nation’s collective good.”
TML: How has your routine changed since October 7?
Idit Ohel: “Pre-October 7, I was a teacher. Now, my husband and I focus on advocating for Alon’s return. We campaign tirelessly, urging everyone to raise their voices for our hostages. Alon represents all our children, and our bond as a nation compels us to act for their safe return.”
TML: Would you like to share a final message?
Idit Ohel: “I believe Alon will return. We need unified action from citizens and global allies to expedite the hostages’ return. Posting online, attending rallies—every action counts. We must fight for justice and for the future of all hostages. It’s a collective responsibility to advocate for what’s right.”
This story was first published on jpost.com.