A year after their liberation from Hamas captivity, twin brothers Gali and Ziv Berman are navigating a complex and often challenging new phase of their lives. Abducted from their kibbutz during the October 7, 2023 attacks, their return to freedom has presented a different kind of struggle, one focused on rebuilding shattered routines and confronting the profound psychological impact of their ordeal.
The brothers, who were taken hostage when militants raided their home, spent a significant period in captivity before their eventual release. While the physical chains have been broken, the invisible bonds of trauma and the disruption to their sense of normalcy continue to shape their daily existence. Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that the transition from the extreme conditions of captivity to the relative freedom of civilian life has been far from seamless. This period is marked by the arduous process of readjusting to everyday responsibilities, social interactions, and the fundamental rhythms of life that were violently interrupted.
The psychological toll of being held hostage is a significant factor in their ongoing recovery. Experts in trauma and hostage recovery emphasize that the aftermath of such experiences can manifest in various ways, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships. For Gali and Ziv Berman, this means not only processing the memories of their time in captivity but also learning to trust again and to feel secure in their environment. The constant vigilance and fear that likely characterized their captivity can be difficult to shed, even in a safe setting.
Rebuilding their lives involves more than just emotional healing; it also encompasses practical and social reintegration. This includes potentially returning to work or education, reconnecting with friends and family who have also experienced the trauma of the October 7 attacks and the subsequent conflict, and finding a sense of purpose and belonging. The kibbutz community, which itself would have suffered significant losses and trauma, is also in a process of recovery, adding another layer of complexity to the brothers’ reintegration. The shared experience of the attack and the subsequent events creates a unique bond, but also a collective burden that the community must bear.
The challenges faced by Gali and Ziv Berman are indicative of the broader struggles experienced by many former hostages. The international community and support organizations often focus on the immediate rescue and return of hostages, but the long-term process of recovery and reintegration requires sustained attention and resources. This includes access to specialized mental health care, social support networks, and opportunities to rebuild their futures on their own terms. The brothers’ journey highlights the critical need for comprehensive support systems that extend far beyond the initial moments of freedom, addressing the multifaceted needs of individuals who have endured extreme trauma.
The path forward for Gali and Ziv Berman, like many others who have undergone similar experiences, is one of resilience and adaptation. Their story underscores the enduring human capacity to overcome adversity, but also serves as a stark reminder of the profound and lasting impact of violence and captivity. The adjustment to freedom is not an endpoint, but rather a new and complex chapter in their lives, one that requires patience, understanding, and continued support from their communities and beyond.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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