Eli Sharabi, who endured 491 days as a hostage, is speaking out about his traumatic experience and the profound grief he carries. He recently learned that his wife, Lianne, and their daughters, Noiya and Yahel, were killed by Hamas on October 7th, shortly after he was taken captive. The news came as a devastating blow on the day of his release, shattering his hopes of reuniting with his family.
Sharabi recounted the brutal conditions of his captivity, including prolonged periods of being tied up, starvation, and physical abuse. Despite the immense suffering, he maintained a fierce determination to survive, driven by a promise to his daughters. His arduous journey through Hamas tunnels and the inhumane treatment he faced have left indelible scars, yet he speaks with remarkable resilience.
Upon his return to Israel, the reality of his loss hit him with full force. He described the moment he learned of his family’s fate as the realization of his worst fears. “I cried for a few minutes,” he shared, “and then I said, it will not help bring back Lianne, Noiya and Yahel.” This profound loss fuels his current advocacy for the release of the remaining hostages and an end to the ongoing conflict.
Sharabi has made a powerful plea to US President Donald Trump, urging him to “finish the job” and use his influence to secure the release of all hostages. He also directly addressed Hamas, calling on them to sign a peace deal for the sake of their own people and the region, stating, “War is wrong and awful for both sides.”
He expressed deep concern about the prospects of a new peace plan, admitting to being “very worried” about its potential failure. However, he stressed the importance of maintaining hope and faith that an agreement will eventually be reached. Sharabi’s personal ordeal highlights the critical need for a resolution that prioritizes the lives and well-being of all those affected by the conflict.
Despite the immense personal tragedy, Sharabi remains committed to rebuilding his life and honoring the memory of his family. He is determined to share his story through his book, ‘Hostage,’ hoping to raise awareness and prevent others from enduring similar horrors. He finds strength in the support of strangers and the memory of his loved ones, stating, “Yossi, Lianne, Noiya and Yahel are with me every day… But I’m quite sure they will be alongside my life, not instead of my life.” His unwavering spirit and love for life serve as a testament to his extraordinary resilience.