Yelena Tropnov Reveals Secret Behind Painting Smuggled from Hamas Captivity

Yelena Tropnov, a survivor of Hamas captivity, shared her emotional experience during her son Sasha Tropnov and Sapir Cohen's wedding, both also survivors of captivity. In an interview on Reshet Bet's "At Midday" program, Yelena described the wedding as a deeply joyful event that many who supported them during their difficult times attended. She revealed the story behind a painting created by Emilia Aloni during their shared captivity, which depicted Sasha and Sapir's wedding even before Yelena knew if her son was alive. Yelena smuggled the painting out hidden under her shirt, despite strict prohibitions against holding notes, as it gave her hope during the darkest days.

Yelena also spoke about her painful decision after her release not to visit the grave of her husband, Vitaly Tropnov, who was murdered on October 7, until Sasha returned from captivity. She said she wanted to either go with her son or lie beside her husband, not visit alone. After Sasha's return, they visited Vitaly's grave together to share the wedding news, with Yelena expressing confidence that he watched over them.

Regarding Sasha's transformation after 498 days in captivity, mostly in isolation, Yelena said he returned more sensitive and faithful, having had much time to reflect on life. The young couple now plans to build their home and focus on their future, hoping to grow and develop their lives, including starting a family.