Eli Sharabi Freed After 490 Days in Hamas Captivity, Returns Home to Tragic News

Jerusalem: After spending 490 days in captivity, an Israeli hostage, Eli Sharabi, was finally released by Hamas. However, his return home was met with immense sorrow when he learned the devastating truth about his family. During Hamas’ attack, Eli’s wife, two daughters, and brother were killed.

Eli Sharabi, 52, was among three hostages released under a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, in exchange for dozens of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. His release initially sparked joy in Tel Aviv, but that joy was short-lived. As he eagerly looked forward to reuniting with his family, he was met with the heartbreaking news that his wife, two daughters, and brother had been murdered on October 7—the same day Hamas launched its attack on Israel. Before his release, Eli had expressed happiness, saying, “I am overjoyed to be returning to my wife and daughters today.”

Hamas Wiped Out His Family

When Eli Sharabi’s in-laws, Gillian and Pete Brisley, saw him being released on Saturday morning, they held a teddy bear close to their chest—symbolizing the immense pain their family had endured since Hamas’ attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The attack claimed the lives of their daughter Lian Sharabi and their teenage granddaughters, Noiya and Yahel, while their son-in-law Eli was taken hostage. Eli’s brother, Yossi, was also murdered.

A Weak and Frail Hostage

For Eli Sharabi’s family, his release was a bittersweet moment. While they were relieved he was free, they were also shocked to see his frail and weak appearance on television. The once strong and sturdy man they had last seen 18 months ago now looked pale and emaciated. His usual bright eyes had lost their shine. Pete Brisley, referencing World War II concentration camps, remarked that Eli looked like a survivor of Belsen.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called the hostages’ condition shocking and assured that the matter would be addressed.