Former Hamas hostage speaks to Rockland residents

After spending two months in Hamas’ captivity, Israeli-born Moran Stela Yanai shared her story of uncertainty and torment in Gaza with members of Congregation Shaarei Israel in Montebello. The packed synagogue listened intently as Yanai spoke haltingly of the first moments when the outdoor music venue at the Kfar Aza kibbutz on Oct. 7, 2023, turned into a bloodbath. Hamas killed hundreds of festivalgoers, who ranged in age from newborn to senior and wounded many others. Israeli forces battled for control of the horrific scene of the attack for three days following the carnage and has since waged war against Hamas and its leaders.

Yanai had brought her jewelry business to the concert, where other vendors were also in attendance. What amazed her that morning, she told hushed listeners, was the beautiful sunrise she and others watched before the festival began. When the attack came hours later, “It was difficult to understand what was happening and to accept it emotionally,” said Yanai. “We were suddenly surrounded…many fell in their tracks, many of us ran…we hid in bushes, wherever we thought we’d find a safe place…I hid behind a tree, where the monsters found me.” After being driven into Gaza, she was held in captivity, not permitted to speak or utter a sound under threat of death. The young woman told the hushed audience it was a shock to her system and difficult to comprehend at first what had really happened to her and the others. Yanai and another female captive tried to support each other as best they could under the horrific circumstances by making eye contact, their resolve to deal with their situation held together by their faith.

Fifty-seven days after being captured, Yanai was released back across the Gaza border. Chabad of Suffern sponsored her visit to Rockland County to share her horrific experience — and her commitment to her faith. Since that fateful encounter with Hamas militants on Oct. 7, Yanai says now, after all that is she has gone through, her faith remains stronger…and her hope for a peaceful world has not been diminished. A prayer she recited each day while imprisoned was reprinted and shared with all the attendees, which she hoped would inspire them so the “glow in our lives will never be dimmed.”

The war in Gaza continues, with the United Nations estimating over 36,000 Palestinians and 1,500 Israelis have died in the ongoing conflict. It is reported that approximately 136 hostages, which includes some American citizens, are still in Hamas’ hands. Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed the fighting will continue until Hamas is destroyed, which has sparked a division between supporters of the counteroffensive in Gaza and those who feel that Palestinians have a right to their own statehood.