“It was all for show, for the world to witness their so-called victory,” said Clara Merman, who was held captive in Gaza for 53 days alongside her sister, her niece, her husband. partner and his brother. Speaking after the release of Emily Damari, Romi Gonen and Doron Steinbrecher on Sunday, Merman reflected on the ordeal and urged sensitivity to help survivors recover.
Merman told Kan11 News how Hamas organized its actions to create an illusion of control and protection upon their release. “Hamas told us: ‘Don’t worry, we’ll protect you.’ Protect us? When the crowd was rushing towards us? she said.
Describing the long and arduous journey home, she said: “They pretended to guard us, escorting the group while keeping the others at a distance. But it was just a blatant performance: so the world could see their so-called victory. »
The challenges of captivity
For Merman, 53 days of captivity seemed unbearable. “Fifty-three days seemed like an eternity. I can’t imagine what it’s like to endure 471 days in captivity – it’s unimaginable,” she said, referring to the hostages released on Sunday.
Seeing photos of recently released women standing gave her a sense of hope. “It gives me a reason to breathe,” she told Kan11 News. “But we must continue to fight for the families who are still waiting for their loved ones. The fight must continue until the end.”
Merman also shared his moving experience at the Kerem Shalom crossing, where Israelis – including soldiers, social workers and medical professionals – gathered to support the freed hostages. “The joy was overwhelming and hard to contain, but it was so meaningful. The three hostages released today met their mothers at the Reim military base. It’s not easy, but it strengthens and elevates us. This is exactly what these young women need right now,” she said.
A different experience for men and women Reflecting on her time in captivity, Merman said the loss of freedom affects everyone equally, regardless of gender. “Captivity is a loss of freedom for everyone, regardless of gender. It is the inability to decide anything for oneself. This is something no one should ever have to endure.
She nevertheless recognizes differences in the way men and women deal with captivity. “After my release, my partner and his brother were relieved to know that we women were home. Men tend to behave as if they are invincible. It has to be different for them than for women,” she said.
Merman offered heartfelt advice to the families of the released hostages. “Everything must be done gently. We are a strong and supportive people, and we have so much love and warmth to give. But it has to be in small doses. Don’t overwhelm them with too much affection or care all at once. Wait for them to set the tone and ask what they need.
She also called on the media to approach the reintegration of survivors with caution. “Exposing them to the horrors of what happened on October 7, 2023 must be done gradually. It’s unclear whether they know how many family members and friends they lost that day. We must introduce them to reality with sensitivity,” she concluded.
