October 7, 2023, will be remembered by the Israeli people for the attack carried out by the Palestinian group Hamas, claiming more than 1,200 lives and kidnapping over 250 people. Luis Har, a survivor, shared his experience during this attack in his home in southern Israel.
Luis recounted that on the morning of the attack, alerted by an alarm, he took refuge with his family upon realizing that Hamas operatives were entering their house shooting. Along with other hostages, they faced extreme situations of food scarcity, reaching the point of having to share a piece of bread for two people in a day, and at times receiving not even a glass of water.
After more than four months of captivity, Luis was rescued in a successful military operation, during which he was freed after a powerful explosion and witnessing bullets entering his room. Despite enduring provocations and mockery from his captors, Luis managed to keep hope and light during his confinement.
Since his release, Luis has dedicated his time to reuniting with his family and providing support to other survivors and affected family members. Although more than half of the kidnapped individuals have been rescued, 59 people remain imprisoned in caves in Gaza, with only 24 estimated to be alive. Some family members have expressed their disappointment with the Israeli government and believe that the situation only increases the risk for the victims.
Luis Har, of Argentine nationality, was kidnapped along with his partner and other relatives from the kibbutz Nir Yzjak. After his release, he recounted his experience of being rescued by the army and finally being brought to safety. Despite the difficult situation, Luis has regained his freedom and now seeks to provide hope to those still in captivity.
