Women Recount Trauma and Uncertainty in New Documentary About Gaza Survivors
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- A new documentary "Who Do You Belong To?" focuses on trauma survivors from Kibbutz Kfar Aza.
- Participants describe ongoing trauma and uncertainty three years after the October 7th attack.
- Some survivors are still in temporary housing, with their return to Kibbutz Kfar Aza delayed.
- The film highlights the importance of peer support groups for survivors.
- The documentary aims to shed light on the war wounded's experiences.
A new documentary titled "Who Do You Belong To?" follows the recovery journey of women from a WhatsApp group who came to Kibbutz Kfar Aza to be with their partners. Ahead of the film's release, participants shared their ongoing trauma and the challenges of returning to their community.
Maya Tzarfati explained that the decision to participate was made while she was sedated and intubated, driven by a desire for personal documentation of their experience and the understanding that their ordeal was far from over. She emphasized that the trauma from October 7th extends beyond the immediate aftermath and the war, describing it as an ongoing, multi-year event with future challenges.
Elai Chogeg Golan, who woke up two months after filming began, felt compelled to join the documentary as part of the group during her subsequent rehabilitation. She found watching herself during recovery difficult but is glad the film highlights the often-overlooked plight of war wounded.
The director, Dotan Naveh, is credited with creating a supportive environment that allowed the women to discuss painful subjects. Jessica Timmer noted that Naveh became like a friend, fostering comfort and openness during their healing process.
For nearly two years, the women have been living in mobile homes in Kibbutz Ruhama, a temporary solution that has been extended. Originally expected to leave after 18 months, their stay has been prolonged until July 2027 because Kibbutz Kfar Aza is not yet ready to fully accommodate all residents. This extension allows individuals to decide whether to return to Kfar Aza or build new lives elsewhere.
The "Who Do You Belong To?" WhatsApp group remains active, providing crucial support and stability. Chogeg Golan described the friendship as an "astronomical force" offering comfort and understanding amidst their current instability. Tzarfati called it a "peer group," a genuine support system and a "fellowship of fate" where members understand each other implicitly.
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