Israeli Hostages Eli-H Cohen and Ziv Avod Marry After Surviving Gaza Captivity and Nova Party Massacre

Eli-H Cohen and Ziv Avod, who survived harrowing ordeals during the October 7 Nova party massacre and subsequent captivity in Gaza, were married on Wednesday in a deeply emotional ceremony. Their love story, spanning ten years, was marked by separation when Cohen was abducted to Gaza during the massacre, while Avod survived the attack. During Cohen's 505 days in Hamas captivity, Avod fought tirelessly for his release and that of other hostages. Cohen, unaware if Avod was alive, had purchased a ring intending to propose once freed. After his release, Cohen waited for fellow captives Alon Ahel and Elkana Bohbot to be freed before proposing to Avod in October, eight months later.

The wedding took place at Ronit Farm, produced by Moran Spiegel, with over 1,000 guests including family and friends. The ceremony was officiated by Israel's Chief Rabbi, David Lau. The couple's ketubah (marriage contract) was written by Moshe Shapira, father of the late Israeli hero Aner Shapira, who died defending others during the Nova party attack. Aner Shapira shielded many from grenades before being fatally wounded; Avod was among those saved by his actions, while Cohen was abducted from the same armored vehicle.

This union symbolizes resilience and hope following one of Israel's darkest terror attacks, highlighting the personal stories behind the national tragedy and the ongoing efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.