IDF Official Shares Former Hostage’s Account of Hamas Abuse in Gaza During Captivity

Maj.-Gen. David (Dado) Bar Kalifa, head of the IDF Manpower Directorate, recounted the harrowing experience of former hostage Avinatan Or during a battle heritage and fallen soldiers’ memorial event in the Negev on Tuesday. Bar Kalifa, who commanded the 36th Division in the Gaza Strip following the October 7 attacks, shared Or’s testimony about being instructed by a Hamas terrorist to spit on him during captivity. This account was delivered to thousands of soldiers at the Southern Command event, emphasizing the need for resilience and remembrance.

Bar Kalifa spoke of the profound impact of October 7, describing it as a pivotal moment that marked a journey from devastation to hope. He addressed the soldiers, urging them not to forget the complexities of their people and the importance of learning from the past. “We are not an easy people, but we are a people of heroes,” he said, expressing concern that the nation might become overwhelmed by internal fractures and lose sight of its collective identity.

Among those honored at the event were Avinatan Or, who returned from Hamas captivity after more than 700 days, and Roy Benjamin Roko, a company commander who rushed into the chaos of the attack. Mazi Ayalon, the widow of a community security coordinator, and Rabbi Shmuel Slotki, whose sons fought to their last drop of blood, were also recognized. Bar Kalifa emphasized the lessons learned from these individuals, particularly from Or’s story.

Or’s account, as shared by Bar Kalifa, highlighted the stark contrast between the IDF and Hamas. According to Bar Kalifa, Or described how his captors beat him with a club and subjected him to dehumanizing treatment. The story, as recounted, serves as a powerful reminder of the moral and ethical differences that define the two sides of the conflict.

Bar Kalifa’s speech underscored the importance of remembering the past and ensuring that such atrocities are never repeated. He called for unity and perseverance, reflecting on the journey from tragedy to hope. The event served as a tribute to those who have fallen and a call to continue the fight with courage and determination.

The narrative of Avinatan Or’s experience, as shared by Bar Kalifa, illustrates the profound human cost of the conflict. It calls for a commitment to justice, mercy, and the pursuit of peace, as seen in Micah 6:8, which emphasizes doing justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly with God. The story serves as a reminder of the need for accountability and the importance of remembering the victims.

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