Hostage Omer Shem-Tov Recounts Trauma Triggered by Hamas Attack Recording

Omer Shem-Tov, who was held captive by Hamas for over a year and a half, described a recent visit to a museum dedicated to the October 7th massacre that intensely re-traumatized him. While touring the "October 7th" museum at the Glilot intelligence base, Shem-Tov entered a dark tunnel featuring recordings from the day of the attack. Near the exit, he heard a familiar voice from a vehicle display: Maya Regev, who was with him in a car during the attack. The recording captured Regev screaming, "Dad, they shot me! Dad, they shot me!" and "He's killing us, Dad, he's killing us!" Shem-Tov stated that hearing the recording instantly transported him back to the horrific experience, causing him to freeze and become unable to move. He recounted being in the car, running through fields, seeing terrorists, and being shot at, feeling as if he was reliving the event.

In an interview with Lital Shemesh for Channel 14 News, Shem-Tov discussed how faith and imagining his return home helped him survive his captivity. He also spoke about the triggers that still affect him, like explosions and fireworks. He shared that during his captivity, a small flashlight found in a Hamas militant's pocket became a vital tool, helping him confirm he could still see and orient himself in the prolonged darkness. He described a moment of surrender to God as a turning point, after which he began to "see light."

Shem-Tov also reflected on his current state, describing himself as a "free person" and feeling "illuminated" by his efforts to spread good through his book, encounters, and experiences. He believes his abduction had a purpose, possibly to speak out globally and spread "light and love." He emphasized the importance of Israel remaining strong and vigilant, stating, "We need to be as strong as possible. We need to stand our ground."

He also addressed humanitarian aid to Gaza, asserting that aid is present, contrary to claims he's heard from pro-Palestinian individuals. Shem-Tov shared a list of simple dreams he held during captivity, including riding a motorcycle with his father, watching a sunset with his siblings, and walking barefoot on grass. He noted that the experience has made him deeper, more understanding, and more patient, contrasting with his former impatience, particularly in traffic.