Siegel Couple Recounts Hamas Captivity and Return to Life

Aviva and Keith Siegel are attempting to rebuild their lives in Kfar Aza three years after the October 7th Hamas attacks, during which they were both taken hostage to Gaza. In an interview with i24NEWS, the couple shared their experiences of captivity, separation, and the challenging process of returning to daily life. Aviva Siegel was released in November 2023 after 51 days in captivity, while her husband remained a hostage for a longer period. During their separation, Aviva actively campaigned for Keith's release. The couple described living underground in harrowing conditions, constantly fearing for their lives. Keith Siegel recounted the violence and humiliation inflicted upon hostages and witnessed the suffering of others, stating, "We could have been killed so many times." They explained that they tried not to show fear to their captors and did not resist, believing this may have contributed to their survival. Since their reunion, Aviva and Keith are focusing on rediscovering simple everyday actions like walking outside, seeing the sky, or hearing birds, which have taken on new meaning after months of captivity. Aviva noted that Keith's return was a turning point, as she found it difficult to feel joy while he was still held captive. The couple is now working to reconnect with family memories and Jewish holidays, which were previously overshadowed by absence and uncertainty. Aviva Siegel expressed her relief at regaining basic freedoms, saying, "That's it, I can breathe, I can go drink water." Their seemingly ordinary daily life now symbolizes their reconstruction after the ordeal of captivity.