Eliya Cohen struggles with survivor's guilt after Gaza ordeal

In recent months, Eliya Cohen was released from captivity in Gaza, where he spent over 500 days held by Hamas. Cohen was captured during a festival where he, along with others, sought refuge in a bomb shelter. However, Hamas militants discovered them, leading to their detention. For the majority of his captivity, Cohen was confined in darkness and faced severe deprivation, including a lack of hygiene. During this harrowing time, he formed bonds with fellow hostages, including Or Levy and Eli Sharabi. Despite enduring significant trauma, his release was overshadowed by the knowledge that more hostages remained in captivity. Cohen's experience reflects a deep psychological toll, as he grapples with feelings of guilt, eating and showering while knowing others suffer. He discovered on his return that his girlfriend had survived and fought for his release, adding another layer to his emotional struggle. The tragic news of other hostages being killed during their captivity further weighs on him. Cohen urges Israeli leadership to negotiate for the remaining hostages' freedom, emphasizing the need for a strategic agreement with Hamas. The plight of the captive hostages illustrates the ongoing conflict dynamics between Israel and Hamas. The conditions under which these hostages lived were horrific, with minimal communication and extreme physical conditions likely leading to long-lasting trauma. Cohen's story serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost associated with these conflicts and the profound emotional experiences that endure even post-release. It emphasizes not just the need for negotiation but also the necessity of addressing the psychological impacts on the released hostages. As Cohen seeks to heal from his traumatic experience, he faces the daunting task of not forgetting those still held captive. While efforts to secure their release continue, his story sheds light on the broader implications of hostage situations in conflict areas. The emotional burden of survival while others remain trapped captures the heartache of many in similar situations, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution to this ongoing crisis.