Aviatar David Shares Harrowing Captivity Experience and Post-Traumatic Struggles After Gaza Abduction
Aviatar David, an Israeli soldier who survived captivity in Gaza, has opened up about his traumatic experience and ongoing recovery in a recent interview with CNN. Over a year ago, a distressing video showed David digging his own grave in the tunnels of the Gaza Strip, sparking nationwide concern due to his emaciated appearance. He now reveals the severe hunger and psychological torment he endured during his captivity, especially in the months leading up to the video filmed in August 2025.
David described the hunger as not only physical but deeply mental, with constant uncertainty about when or if he would eat again, fearing death by starvation. This extreme deprivation even caused tension among the captives. He explained that Hamas chose him to appear in the video because he looked worse than his fellow captive, Gai Gilboa-Dalal, making him the "actor" in their staged footage. Despite the scripted nature, David emphasized the truth behind his condition, noting he had not eaten for three months and struggled physically to perform even simple tasks like digging.
He recounted how his captors had access to food, air conditioning, and television, mocking the prisoners’ suffering while maintaining a facade that there was no food in Gaza. David's resilience was fueled by thoughts of his family waiting for him and the belief that even in the worst moments, things could get better. He urged others not to give up when feeling broken, calling such moments turning points.
Since his release in October 2025, David has faced a difficult recovery process, dealing with post-traumatic stress and the challenge of rebuilding his life. He noted that state support for former captives is insufficient, prompting his family and friends to launch a crowdfunding campaign for his rehabilitation. David expressed hope that the next government would improve assistance for survivors. Recently, he celebrated a personal milestone by playing guitar at his older brother Ilai’s wedding, symbolizing his victory over adversity. He also referenced the wedding of fellow captive survivors Eli Cohen and Ziv Avud as a powerful moment of closure and triumph.
