Heartbreaking Story Unfolds

The heartbreaking story of an Israeli woman kidnapped and murdered by Hamas continues to unfold, as her sisters bravely share the devastating conditions she endured during her captivity. Eden Yerushalmi, who was taken during the horrific October 7 attack while attending the Nova music festival, was found dead in an underground tunnel in Gaza after months of relentless uncertainty for her family.

Brave Sisters Share Their Despair

Eden's sisters, Shani and May, recounted their harrowing journey since the discovery of Eden’s body by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) last month. They detailed how they were led to believe she was alive, with proof provided to them on three separate occasions, the most recent being just weeks before her tragic death. 'It’s very difficult for us. We feel like we’re in a nightmare,' Shani shared, emphasizing the disbelief and heartache that have overshadowed their lives since Eden's abduction.

Horrific Conditions in Captivity

Details about the truly horrific conditions in which Eden and other hostages were held have been revealed by the IDF. Shani described the tunnels as cramped and suffocating, where captives were forced to line up to sleep and had no access to light or fresh air. The lack of basic necessities was severe, with little food available, and even bathroom visits were reduced to using a bucket.

Tragic Discovery by IDF

The IDF reported that Eden, along with five other hostages, was found in a Hamas-controlled tunnel in Rafah, and tragically, they were 'brutally' killed shortly before Israeli troops could reach them. The sisters received the heartbreaking news that Eden had been shot at close range and bore signs of trying to defend herself during her final moments.

Public Outrage and Accountability

Eden's tragic death has fueled a wave of anger across Israel, with many citizens holding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government accountable for its handling of the hostage crisis. Since the attack, over 1,200 people have lost their lives, and more than 250 have been taken hostage. The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 40,000 Palestinians in Gaza, raising urgent calls for a ceasefire and negotiations for the release of hostages still being held.

Last Communication and Emotional Farewell

The sisters shared that Eden, a 23-year-old Pilates instructor who worked at the Nova festival, had communicated with them during the chaotic moments after the attack began. In a chilling message, she conveyed that she was about to leave when gunfire erupted, only to later inform them, 'They've caught me.' This haunting final exchange weighs heavily on their hearts.

A Sister’s Heart-Wrenching Decision

After the grim discovery of her body, May chose to see Eden one last time, describing the moment as emotionally overwhelming. 'She was so thin, we could feel her bones sticking out,' May recounted. An autopsy revealed that Eden weighed only 79 pounds at the time of her death.

Remembering Eden as a Symbol of Resilience

Eden Yerushalmi is remembered not only as a victim of this tragic situation but as a symbol of resilience. Her sisters describe her as a kind and warm-hearted person, highlighting her strength in surviving the unimaginable ordeal for so long. 'The most important thing is that she was a hero,' May said, reflecting on the bravery displayed by Eden during her captivity.

A Call for Peace Amidst Chaos

As the world watches and awaits further developments in this ongoing crisis, the Yerushalmi family's story serves as a potent reminder of the human cost of violence and the longing for peace amidst chaos.