Former Hostages Speak Out on Struggles a Year After Release

A year after their release from Hamas captivity, former hostages Segev Kalfon and Maksim Harkin are speaking out about the profound challenges they face in rebuilding their lives and their ongoing struggles with the Israeli state.

Kalfon, who was held for months in Gaza, described his post-release life as a "completely new life." He has found a new purpose in giving lectures, which he views as a mission, sharing his story to inspire others. However, beneath the surface of confidence, Kalfon grapples with severe PTSD, experiencing nightmares about his captivity. He also struggles with a diminished sense of security in Israel, recounting an incident where he froze upon realizing his proximity to the Lebanese border during a lecture. Kalfon expressed a desire to return to normalcy, free from being perceived as a "superstar," and also shared feelings of guilt over surviving when others, like a soldier from Dimona who died, did not.

Kalfon is also engaged in a difficult battle with the state over rehabilitation assistance, stating that "they are putting sticks in our wheels." He is not seeking wealth but rather minimal support to avoid dependency, citing inadequate housing assistance that prevents him from living in central Israel where his treatment and work are located. He hopes to be seen as a strong businessman who rebuilt his life, rather than a victim.

Maksim Harkin, also released after being held captive, suffers from severe triggers that can transport him back to his traumatic experiences, including flashbacks of the tunnels and the October 7th massacre. He struggles with eating, often forgetting meals, and is haunted by the memories of those killed at the Nova music festival, particularly his friends Einav and Matthias Borshtein. Harkin described the horrific scenes of young people begging for their lives and being murdered with smiles on their captors' faces.

Harkin's family is also deeply affected, with his mother described as "broken and shattered." He finds it difficult to discuss the graphic details of his ordeal with his daughter and other family members, preferring to share the burden collectively. While public donations have helped him purchase an apartment and car, Harkin believes the state's support is insufficient, praising the dedication of his doctors but questioning the adequacy of his disability pension. He dreams of national unity and the safe return of all hostages.