Hamas Captive Survivor Begins Tattoo Removal Six Months After Release

Rom Breslavsky, who was held captive by Hamas in Gaza, shared on Wednesday his personal decision to remove a tattoo from his body as part of a spiritual strengthening process since returning to Israel about six months ago. In a social media post, Breslavsky explained that the tattoo, which he believes should not be on a Jewish person according to his faith, accompanied him even during his captivity. He cited a verse from the Torah, "You shall not put a tattoo on yourselves," and expressed gratitude to God for his freedom and the chance to start anew.

Breslavsky recounted that during the harsh summer months in captivity, one of the militants forced him to wear a jacket to cover the tattoo in case Israeli forces arrived at the location where he was held. This moment highlighted the irony that the tattoo was what identified him as Jewish to his captors. This realization, combined with his spiritual growth since release, led him to decide to remove the tattoo.

He chose laser treatments for the removal despite the pain involved, viewing it as a personal and spiritual mission. Breslavsky dedicated much of his post to thanking God for the strength and opportunity to rebuild his life, acknowledging that the suffering he endured was part of the journey that deepened his faith.