A former Israeli hostage whose wife and children were killed by Hamas in the October 7 attacks has expressed he is 'trying to be positive' after his release earlier this year. In a rare interview, Eli Sharabi, who became one of the most high-profile hostages when gunmen stormed into Israel two years ago, reflected on the moment he learned about his family's death following his release earlier this year.
He voiced concerns that the latest peace plan aimed at ending the conflict between Israel and Hamas might falter, posing risks to the remaining hostages still held captive amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza war.
Describing his ordeal, Mr. Sharabi shared that he had urged Hamas to agree to a ceasefire for the sake of their people and the broader Middle East, emphasizing that 'war is wrong and awful for both sides.'
He reiterated the importance of hope, particularly that there would be a resolution to the hostage crisis. His interview comes as he campaigns tirelessly for the release of other captives held by Hamas, including the body of his brother Yossi, who he wishes to return for a proper burial. Mr. Sharabi endured 491 days in captivity, only discovering on the day of his release the tragic fate that befell his wife Lianne and their daughters, 16-year-old Noiya and 13-year-old Yahel, killed shortly after he was taken.
Reflecting on his emotional release, he recalled a pivotal moment—imagining a future with his family, which was shattered as he faced the horrifying reality of their deaths. Since his release, Mr. Sharabi, now 53, remains steadfast in his resolve to live, driven by memories of his loved ones and the desire for peace. He addresses the ongoing violence that places hostages' lives in danger, saying, 'War is awful, people are suffering from war, but we can't forget who started that.'
Despite the immense grief, he emphasizes his love for life, stating, 'It was very tough, but I really, really love life. I'm trying to be positive. I'm working on that.' His story stands as a testament to resilience in the face of overwhelming sorrow.
He voiced concerns that the latest peace plan aimed at ending the conflict between Israel and Hamas might falter, posing risks to the remaining hostages still held captive amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza war.
Describing his ordeal, Mr. Sharabi shared that he had urged Hamas to agree to a ceasefire for the sake of their people and the broader Middle East, emphasizing that 'war is wrong and awful for both sides.'
He reiterated the importance of hope, particularly that there would be a resolution to the hostage crisis. His interview comes as he campaigns tirelessly for the release of other captives held by Hamas, including the body of his brother Yossi, who he wishes to return for a proper burial. Mr. Sharabi endured 491 days in captivity, only discovering on the day of his release the tragic fate that befell his wife Lianne and their daughters, 16-year-old Noiya and 13-year-old Yahel, killed shortly after he was taken.
Reflecting on his emotional release, he recalled a pivotal moment—imagining a future with his family, which was shattered as he faced the horrifying reality of their deaths. Since his release, Mr. Sharabi, now 53, remains steadfast in his resolve to live, driven by memories of his loved ones and the desire for peace. He addresses the ongoing violence that places hostages' lives in danger, saying, 'War is awful, people are suffering from war, but we can't forget who started that.'
Despite the immense grief, he emphasizes his love for life, stating, 'It was very tough, but I really, really love life. I'm trying to be positive. I'm working on that.' His story stands as a testament to resilience in the face of overwhelming sorrow.
