Gaza Border Resident Returns Home, Publishes Trauma Memoir

Lila Naftali, 44, who was evacuated from Kibbutz Nir Am after the October 7th Hamas attacks, has returned to the kibbutz and purchased a new home there. The mother of three, who initially vowed never to return due to the trauma of the attack, has found a renewed sense of belonging.

Naftali described the harrowing experience of October 7th, where her ex-husband sheltered their daughters while she hid alone for hours, fearing for her life. The family was evacuated to Eilat, and Naftali initially declared they would never live near the Gaza border again. However, as she regained a sense of security, she realized she missed the community and sense of belonging.

She returned to Nir Am in October 2025, two years after the attack and on the same day the remaining living hostages were released from Gaza. This return was significant for her, as she felt it was morally wrong to focus on rebuilding while hostages were still held captive. Her daughter Ziv expressed that she would only feel safe when her mother, who is most aware of the dangers, returned home.

Naftali has also published a book, 'From the Fracture,' detailing her personal trauma and recovery. She found writing to be a cathartic process, allowing her to process her experiences in a controlled manner. She has also adopted a therapy dog named Amos, who has significantly reduced her anxiety and improved her sleep. Despite the lingering fears, Naftali feels a newfound bravery and optimism, stating that her extreme experience has made other challenges seem less daunting. She has also enrolled in dance classes and is pursuing new life directions, including a new job as a rights manager for the Eshkol Regional Council.