Freed Hostage Recounts Yom Kippur Fast, Prayers in Hamas Tunnels

Bar Cooperstein, a former Israeli hostage held by Hamas in Gaza, shared his experiences of observing Yom Kippur while in captivity, speaking for the first time since the holiday without hostages remaining in Gaza. Last year, during Yom Kippur, Cooperstein was still a captive. He recounted how he and other hostages decided to fast, a difficult undertaking that required saving food from the day before to break the fast, hoping it might lead to their release. Weeks after that Yom Kippur, they were indeed freed.

Cooperstein also described how the hostages recited penitential prayers, known as Selichot. He recalled leading these prayers in the army and, while captive, wrote them down on a piece of paper, with friends contributing to the text. They spent the entire day anticipating the moment they could recite the half-hour prayer service.

A former security guard at the Nova music festival, Cooperstein reflected on the October 7th attacks and his decision to help others instead of fleeing. He was informed by a police investigator that his actions, along with those of others, helped save over 2,000 people. Cooperstein stated he has met many, but not all, of those he saved, and that he never questioned why he didn't escape, emphasizing his desire to help people. He even recounted returning to help others after having an opportunity to escape.

Following his release, Cooperstein organized a Selichot prayer service in the Hostages Square. He explained it was not only a religious event but also a way to thank those who fought for the hostages' freedom, including strangers who advocated for them. He also stressed the importance of including prayers for the fallen and their families during the service, considering it the most fitting occasion.

Previously, Cursor reported that the US issued an urgent warning to citizens in Israel.