Former IDF Officer Shares Emotional Journey Supporting Families of Hamas Hostages from Gaza

Retired Brigadier General Michal Teshuva, who served as a liaison officer for families of hostages held by Hamas since the October 7, 2023 attack, recounts the intense and intimate moments behind the scenes of this ongoing crisis. Teshuva, who transitioned from a high-ranking military career to becoming a victims' officer, was among the first to notify families about their loved ones’ captivity and later helped maintain hope amid uncertainty.

Teshuva describes the emotional challenges of delivering devastating news and the delicate balance of providing support while managing families’ anger and despair. She recalls her first visit to the family of Almog Meir Jan, the first of 13 hostages she assisted, emphasizing the weight of "changing a family’s life" with such news. Despite some families’ feelings of abandonment by the state, Teshuva’s presence in uniform symbolized official support and empathy.

Throughout the months, Teshuva maintained close contact with families, offering both emotional support and practical assistance, such as navigating bureaucratic hurdles. She highlights the importance of gender sensitivity in her role, noting how female officers can better comfort mothers during tragic moments. Teshuva also shares poignant memories of the hostages, including the maturity of young Amelia Aloni and a touching moment when a formerly non-religious hostage requested to say a prayer upon release.

In June 2024, Teshuva was part of the daring "Arnon" rescue operation that freed Almog and three others. She continues to support families even after the hostages’ return, acknowledging the complex emotions involved in meeting loved ones after long captivity. Parallel to this, Teshuva manages a major healthcare district, balancing her professional responsibilities with her commitment to the families.

Reflecting on the ordeal, Teshuva describes the families’ daily struggle with uncertainty and the rare moments of relief when hostages were rescued. She marked Israel’s Independence Day 2024 with a personal celebration, feeling a profound sense of closure as all 13 hostages returned alive. Her story reveals the human side of a national tragedy and the resilience of those caught in its wake.