Ophakim 'Cookie Heroine' Rachel Edri Recounts Trauma and Resilience Three Years After Hamas Attack

Three years after the October 7th Hamas attack, Rachel Edri, known as the "Ophakim Heroine" for outwitting terrorists who held her and her husband captive for 20 hours, is still grappling with the aftermath. She continues to live in the same home where the ordeal occurred, receiving psychological support and focusing on "miracles" to cope with the loss of her husband, David, who died four months after the attack, unable to recover from the trauma. Edri recounted to journalists her enduring grief and anger over the events.

During the 20-hour hostage situation, Edri offered the terrorists coffee and homemade cookies, provided medical aid to an injured attacker, and engaged them in conversation to stall for time until the Yamam special forces arrived. Her son, a police officer, had drawn a plan of the house for the assault team. Her quick thinking and bravery turned her into a national symbol of resilience and hope amidst the tragedy.

The story gained widespread attention, leading to memes, appearances on satirical shows, a meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden, a film, and a torch-lighting ceremony on Independence Day. However, the initial triumph was overshadowed by the death of her husband, David, after 44 years of marriage. Edri described David as being in shock throughout the ordeal, with terrorists frequently holding a gun to his head.

Edri shared that she still struggles daily but focuses on the "miracles" of survival. She recalled her initial disbelief at the terrorists' presence and her decision to treat them as "guests" to manage the situation. She credits her innate resilience, which her children call "street cat" toughness, for her ability to cope. David, in contrast, remained withdrawn and traumatized, refusing psychological help.

She expressed deep longing for David, her "one and only husband," and the void left by his death. Despite her children's support, nights are difficult, filled with intrusive thoughts. Edri prays to focus only on the "miracles" and actively tries to suppress the traumatic memories, especially during holidays that marked significant events in their life together.

Edri recounted a harrowing moment when she asked a terrorist commander, Abu Amar, to let her administer an insulin shot so she could briefly see her son Evitar, who was part of the police operation outside. She was allowed to see him under duress, with a grenade held to her body, before returning to her captors. She also described how David shielded her during the Yamam raid, wanting to take the bullets himself.

Despite the extensive damage to her home during the rescue operation, Edri refused offers to move, viewing her return as a defiance against terrorism. The repairs were handled by her children. She continues to receive therapy, finding comfort in her relationship with her psychologist. While she acknowledges the anger felt by many Israelis over the failures of October 7th, she emphasizes the importance of national unity and cherishes her children and grandchildren as her support system.