Israelis Reflect on Trauma and Resilience Three Years After October 7th

Three years after the October 7th attacks, Israelis continue to grapple with the profound trauma and loss, while also demonstrating remarkable resilience and a commitment to rebuilding. The article features several personal stories highlighting these enduring struggles and the strength found in community and family.

Asher Kofets, a reservist who fought on multiple fronts, reflects on the ongoing impact of the attacks on his community in Shlomit, near the Gaza border. Despite the physical growth of the settlement, the emotional wounds remain. Kofets, a father of eight, has been on his sixth reserve duty since the war began, emphasizing his commitment to standing strong. He also recounts an incident in Gaza where four soldiers in his unit were injured, with none fully recovering.

The family of Sergeant Major Shachaf Nissani, who fell on October 7th, shares their enduring grief and the transformation of their anger into profound longing. Her mother, Ilana, and sister, Sapir, now cherish a notebook that survived the attack on the observation post, viewing it as a historical artifact. They express frustration that the country has not learned from the failures that led to the massacre, fearing a repeat of the tragedy.

Hisham Al-Sayed, who endured ten years of captivity in Gaza, is slowly rebuilding his life with his father in Hura. His recovery is marked by physical and bureaucratic challenges, with his father actively fighting for his rehabilitation. Hisham's memory is fragmented, with his time in captivity largely a blank, highlighting the lasting psychological impact of his ordeal.

Retired Border Police commander Amit Gur recounts her bravery on October 7th, where she fought in multiple battles, sustained injuries, and saved the lives of soldiers. Now a mother of two, she struggles with the long-term physical and psychological effects, including PTSD, which impact her ability to care for her young children. Despite her challenges, she finds strength in her family and her commitment to a better future.

Lieutenant Colonel Yonatan Tzur, who fell on October 7th while leading his troops, is remembered by his widow, Rishit, and mother, Rivka, for his multifaceted personality, a blend of strength and sensitivity, ideology and enjoyment of life. Rishit speaks of an "accelerated growth" as she navigates life as a single mother of three, finding strength in community and shared experiences. Rivka continues to honor his memory through various activities, including teaching Torah classes.

Mazi Ayalon, whose husband Tal fell defending Kibbutz Kfar Aza, has returned to their home with their three children. She describes the difficulty of rebuilding their lives while coping with the immense loss, but finds solace in community and the familiar surroundings of the kibbutz. She is now responsible for the rehabilitation of communities in the Gaza envelope, channeling her personal tragedy into communal rebuilding.

Senior Bedouin tracker Ashraf Bahri, who had warned of an impending attack a week before October 7th, recounts his experience defending the Gaza Division headquarters. He describes the intense battle and the difficult decision to prepare for a final stand if ammunition ran out. Today, he sees improvements in security and a stronger sense of unity, but the trauma of that day remains a constant reminder.

Shachar Ha'ev, a survivor of the Nir Oz kibbutz massacre, now lives in France with his wife and son. While they have adapted to life abroad, he maintains a connection to Israel and his community, grappling with the decision of whether to return to vote. The experience has left him with a deep sense of loss and a longing for the life he once knew.

These stories collectively illustrate the deep scars left by the October 7th attacks, but also the enduring spirit of Israelis who are determined to heal, rebuild, and move forward.