Israeli Hostage Shares Harrowing Experience of Abuse During Captivity

Guy Gilboa-Dalal, a young Israeli man held hostage by Hamas, has bravely shared his experiences of sexual abuse during his captivity. In a candid interview, he recounts the harrowing details of his ordeal, aiming to inspire other survivors to come forward. His story highlights the importance of speaking out against sexual violence, especially in conflict situations. Gilboa-Dalal's testimony serves as a powerful reminder that victims are not alone and that it is never their fault. His emotional reunion with family after his release adds a poignant touch to his narrative.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 22, 2026, 05:08 IST

A Brave Survivor's Testimony

Guy Gilboa-Dalal, a 24-year-old Israeli man who was held captive by Hamas for two years, has bravely opened up about the sexual abuse he endured during his time in captivity. His aim is to inspire other survivors to share their stories. Gilboa-Dalal was abducted from the Nova music festival during the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, and spent two years in Gaza before being released in October as part of a ceasefire agreement that freed the last 20 hostages, as reported by a media outlet.

Speaking Out for Change

In an emotional interview with Michal Herzog, Israel's First Lady, Gilboa-Dalal recounted the traumatic experiences he faced. This discussion occurred just before the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict. He revealed that he was subjected to sexual abuse multiple times by his captors, including being forced to undress and assaulted while blindfolded. One of his abusers even threatened him with a gun, warning him against revealing the abuse.

Another disturbing incident occurred while he was permitted to shower, during which he was again sexually assaulted and subsequently beaten.

The Importance of Sharing Stories

Herzog emphasized the significance of survivors like Gilboa-Dalal sharing their experiences, expressing her frustration over Israel's inclusion on a UN list of countries linked to sexual violence in conflict, which the UN stated it could not verify. "This is why we're here," Herzog told him, encouraging him to speak out about his ordeal.

Gilboa-Dalal is one of the few male former hostages to come forward with accounts of sexual assault during their captivity in Gaza. Other released hostages, such as Rom Braslavski and Keith Siegel, have shared similar experiences, with Siegel and his wife providing testimony to the UN Committee Against Torture in Geneva last year.

A Message of Hope for Other Survivors

Gilboa-Dalal expressed his desire to use his experience to support others who have faced sexual assault. "I know that many people who experience sexual assault choose not to speak about it with others, and I want them to know they are not alone," he stated. "It is never the victim's fault." He joyfully reunited with his family on October 13, 2025, marking a poignant moment after his release.