Amit Soussana’s harrowing 55-day captivity at the hands of Hamas terrorists following the October 7, 2023 attacks has been punctuated by moments of both unimaginable brutality and unexpected human connection. Soussana, kidnapped from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, endured a terrifying journey into Gaza, forced to walk barefoot in her pajamas from her burning house, subjected to beatings along the way. This initial ordeal was just a prelude to the psychological and physical torment she would face during her imprisonment. Soussana’s survival, in the midst of such calculated cruelty, was significantly influenced by the actions of a fellow captive, IDF soldier Liri Albag. In a televised interview, Soussana recounted a chilling incident where her captors, suspecting her of being a member of the IDF, tied her up, beat her with a stick, and threatened her life. It was Albag who intervened, convincing the captors of Soussana’s civilian status, an act that Soussana credits with saving her life. This act of solidarity within the confines of their shared captivity underscores the complexities of human interaction even in the face of extreme adversity. Albag’s bravery and quick thinking not only spared Soussana from immediate danger but also provided a vital source of support and hope amidst the overwhelming fear and uncertainty.
Soussana’s ordeal extends beyond physical violence, encompassing a chilling dimension of sexual assault. In March 2024, Soussana bravely became the first Israeli woman to publicly reveal the sexual abuse she suffered during her captivity. Chained by the ankle and constantly under surveillance, she endured a dehumanizing existence where even basic bodily functions required permission. The assault itself, as she detailed in her testimony to the UN Security Council, was a brutal violation carried out by her guard, who exploited her vulnerability and the power dynamics inherent in the captive-captor relationship. The psychological trauma inflicted by this assault was compounded by the forced suppression of her emotions afterwards, highlighting the calculated cruelty of her captors.
Soussana’s courage in sharing her experience serves as a stark reminder of the myriad forms of violence inflicted upon hostages. The sexual assault, in addition to the physical abuse and psychological manipulation, represents a profound violation of human dignity and leaves lasting scars. Her public testimony is a testament to her resilience and a call for acknowledgment and accountability for these heinous crimes. Her story sheds light on the often-overlooked experiences of female captives in conflict zones, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and support for survivors.
The release of Soussana and other hostages, while bringing a measure of relief, does not erase the trauma they endured. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, spanning over 15 months and marked by periods of intense violence and precarious ceasefires, continues to cast a shadow over the lives of those impacted by the October 7 attacks. Soussana’s account underscores the devastating human cost of this conflict, highlighting the enduring psychological and emotional scars borne by the hostages even after their release.
The anticipated release of Agam Berger, Arbel Yehoud, and 80-year-old Gadi Moses in January 2025, as part of the ongoing ceasefire negotiations, offers a glimmer of hope for the families awaiting the return of their loved ones. However, the precarious nature of these agreements and the ongoing hostilities underscore the fragility of the situation. These releases, while offering a moment of respite, do not diminish the profound and lasting impact of captivity on the hostages and their families.
The story of Amit Soussana stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. From the initial terror of her abduction and the physical brutality she endured to the psychological manipulation and the trauma of sexual assault, Soussana’s experiences reveal the depths of human cruelty. However, her courage in speaking out, her unwavering spirit, and the solidarity she found in fellow captive Liri Albag offer a glimpse of hope and resilience amidst the darkness of captivity. Her testimony serves as a crucial reminder of the human cost of conflict and underscores the urgent need for accountability and justice for survivors of such atrocities. The ongoing conflict and the precarious nature of ceasefires highlight the fragility of peace in the region and the continued vulnerability of civilians caught in the crossfire.
