“Every Day is like Hell": Civilian Abductees Released from Captivity in Gaza

Abstract

Captivity, particularly in the context of civilian abduction, significantly affects the immediate and long-term psychological well-being of abductees. While most studies have concentrated on military captivity, the experiences of civilian abductees remain underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the experiences of adult citizens abducted during the Israel-Hamas War, as recounted in their initial press interviews upon their release. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the researchers analyzed existing media interviews with 27 civilians aged 18 to 85, who were abducted from their homes during the war outbreak, held captive for 44 to 55 days, and subsequently released through negotiations. Analysis of the interviews revealed several key findings. The abductees faced traumatic events, including murder and life-threatening situations, which led to intense feelings of shock and resignation to the prospect of death. Their captivity involved a loss of autonomy, social isolation, unsanitary and humiliating conditions, and pervasive fear. Additionally, they experienced profound grief over the deaths of family members and uncertainty about the wellbeing of their friends and relatives. These factors collectively create an environment in which psychological trauma is inevitable. This study’s findings advance our understanding of loss and trauma in the context of civilian captivity, underscoring the complex psychological impact and highlighting the critical need for specialized, multifaceted interventions that address the unique challenges faced by abductees and their communities in the aftermath of such traumatic experiences.