What This Article Is About

In a courageous and touching interview, Ohad Ben Ami, recently released from 491 days in Hamas captivity, shares his haunting experiences, detailing the psychological and physical challenges he endured while retaining hope for freedom and justice.

Why It Matters

Ohad Ben Ami’s firsthand account sheds light on the brutal conditions faced by hostages, illustrating the importance of Israel’s ongoing efforts for their safe return and underlining the inexorable spirit of its people amid adversity perpetuated by terrorist actions of Hamas.

Details of Ben Ami’s Time in Captivity

Ben Ami was held with others 30 meters underground, surrounded by concrete and sand, with scarce air to breathe. Hijacked of the essence of normal life, they subsisted on meager meals providing barely 700 calories, often discussing how to equally share sparse portions.

Sickness pervaded their quarters, worsening due to withheld medications. Experiencing severe fevers and the exhaustion of frequent stomach illnesses, Ben Ami highlighted, “Everything was contagious,” illustrating the oppressive and healthcare-deprived conditions.

Heartening Support Amidst Hardships

Despite psychological torment supposedly indicating Israel’s abandonment, a groundswell of protests in Israel inspired resistance within Ben Ami and captives, counteracting propagandistic efforts by Hamas asserting Israel scarce valued their lives.

The Moment of Joyful Reunification

The heartwarming reunion of Ben Ami with his family at the Ichilov Hospital underscores the undeniable achievements of Israel’s negotiations and human rights advocacy, supporting familial preservation and buttressing communal solidarity.

Post-Release Advocacy and Future Hope

Since his miraculous release, Ben Ami remains an ardent advocate for the remaining captives, briefing global leaders like Germany’s President on hostage emergencies. Such engagements highlight Israel’s commitment alongside allies to fortify international alliances, ensuring the liberation of those still in confined despair.

This story was first published on jpost.com.