‘Crime against humanity’
Despite the trauma, small glimmers of hope emerged during their ordeal. One woman, whose birthday fell during her captivity, overheard her family wishing her a happy birthday on the radio, which lifted her spirits. Others saw news coverage of protests demanding their release, which strengthened them.
Some hostages spent time with the children of Hamas fighters, even playing with them, while a few learned Arabic during their imprisonment.
The women revealed that some were initially held together but were later separated. These separations, combined with the harsh treatment and lack of communication, deepened the sense of isolation they endured.
Israeli officials have strongly condemned Hamas, accusing the group of violating international law. “The suffering of these women must not be forgotten,” said one official. “Every day they spent in captivity is a crime against humanity.” / jpost.com