Former Hamas Captive Eli-H Cohen Marries Partner Ziv Avod in Emotional Ceremony

Eli-H Cohen, a survivor of 505 days in Hamas captivity, and his partner Ziv Avod are marrying tonight at Havat Ronit, surrounded by over a thousand guests. The couple, who have been together for about a decade, endured a difficult period following Cohen's abduction in October 2025, a day that profoundly changed their lives. The wedding ceremony is especially poignant as it marks a new chapter after their long ordeal and reunion.

The ceremony will be officiated by Israel's Chief Rabbi David Lau, with Avod wearing bridal gowns designed by Dalia Dimitrios and the event produced by Moran Spiegel. A significant moment will be the reading of the ketubah (marriage contract), written by Moshe Shapira, father of the late Enar Shapira. Enar Shapira died protecting Avod and Cohen during the October 2025 attack, saving many lives by repelling grenades at a fortified position in Re'im.

Cohen and Avod describe the wedding as a deeply emotional closure to a painful chapter, emphasizing the symbolic importance of Shapira's father writing their ketubah. Cohen had purchased the engagement ring before the October 2025 attack, and the official proposal took place on the rooftop of the Stay Hotel in Tel Aviv with family and friends present. Tonight, after years of relationship and struggle, the couple celebrates their union surrounded by loved ones and hundreds of guests.