Mother of Israeli Hostage Matan Angrist Shares Family's Recovery Journey
Anat Angrist, mother of Israeli soldier and Hamas hostage survivor Matan Angrist, has begun a lecture tour to raise funds for his ongoing rehabilitation. Matan was kidnapped during the October 7, 2025 attack, severely wounded and held captive for two years. Anat describes the family's traumatic experience and the slow process of returning to normal life after his release.
Matan, a devoted soccer fan who grew up watching Barcelona games with his mother, endured a harrowing captivity during which he lost three tank crew friends killed on the day of his abduction. Despite multiple surgeries and physical challenges, he remains motivated and recently took a long trip across America with childhood friends who had waited two years to reunite with him.
Anat recounts the initial uncertainty when Matan was listed as missing and the emotional impact of receiving a first sign of life on his birthday, November 28. She emphasizes her dual role in supporting Matan’s recovery and maintaining family stability, noting the lack of political support and the family's need to advocate directly with Israeli leaders. Anat highlights a pivotal moment when the family led a large protest in Jerusalem opposing a military operation in Gaza, which gained international attention including from former US President Donald Trump.
The reunion with Matan was intense and overwhelming, and the family continues to cope with the trauma. Anat has not returned to her engineering career, focusing instead on daily caregiving tasks and emotional healing. The lecture series, in partnership with the "Ziv Neorim" association, shares their story and raises awareness and funds for Matan’s rehabilitation, which exceeds state support.
Anat also reflects on Matan’s heritage as the grandson of a Holocaust survivor and his upbringing with strong values of service and resilience. She firmly rejects political involvement, dedicating herself solely to her son’s well-being and recovery. The family feels a strong bond with other families of hostages and survivors, united by shared hardship and hope for healing.
