Sapir Cohen recalls hearing 'Allahu Akbar' during Hamas abduction

On October 7, 2023, in Israel, a former hostage named Sapir Cohen recounted her harrowing experience of being kidnapped by Hamas while visiting Kibbutz Nahal Oz. She and her boyfriend Alexander Trufanov were awakened by air raid sirens and alerted by a message from Trufanov's mother about the terrorist infiltration. Despite his initial reservations, Cohen persuaded Trufanov to visit the kibbutz. They hid under a bed as the situation escalated, hearing violent chaos and cries for help around them. As they attempted to protect themselves, they were eventually discovered and taken hostage by Hamas militants. Cohen described the crowd of terrorists and how they stormed homes, leaving behind a scene of carnage. Prayer became a source of solace for Cohen as she realized the grave danger they were in. After being abducted, they endured a harrowing journey to Gaza, where Cohen witnessed the treatment of other captives, some of whom were left in despair. Cohen recalled encountering numerous fellow hostages, each suffering from their own trauma and uncertainty. Many were fearful for their loved ones who remained in the kibbutz, unaware of their fate. The psychological toll of the ordeal was evident, as some hostages struggled to cope with the brutal reality of their circumstances. During her 55 days in captivity, Cohen continued to pray for deliverance, hoping to support others who were just as frightened. Ultimately, Cohen was freed during a ceasefire deal that also saw her partner's family members released, but Trufanov remained in captivity. The mass abduction and violence that occurred on that day marked a tragic chapter in the ongoing conflict and highlighted the human cost of such orchestrated terror attacks. Cohen's harrowing story serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of peace and the pervasive fear experienced by those caught in the crossfire of political turmoil.