Hostage Survivor Omer Shem Tov Details Trauma, Isolation in Captivity

Omer Shem Tov, a former hostage held in Gaza, revealed on Sunday that he is struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, describing moments where he "freezes up." In an interview with Kan Radio's "Kalman Lieberman" program, Shem Tov shared details of his 50 days of captivity, during which he was held in complete darkness in a small tunnel cell.

He recounted extreme hunger and isolation, stating he was alone for that entire period, without contact with other hostages or captors. Shem Tov described the initial difficulty of the darkness, feeling suffocated and unable to move freely in the confined space. He noted that he was forbidden to shout, making a return to normalcy and the ability to yell a significant desire upon his release.

Shem Tov explained that after a period of struggle, he surrendered to a higher power, which brought him a sense of routine. He engaged in meditation and vivid imagination to cope. His faith deepened significantly during captivity, transforming from a general belief to a tangible, physical experience of trust in God.

He also shared a specific memory of receiving a small bottle of grape juice from a Hamas operative, a gift purportedly from fellow hostage Mia Regev. Shem Tov and another hostage, Itay Regev, used the juice and some pretzels for Kiddush every Friday, with the small bottle lasting until two months before his release.

Shem Tov expressed his intention to "spread light and joy" and share his experiences with others, aiming to convey what he endured during his ordeal.