Karina Ariyev with her favourite octopus.Photo: Instagram photo
On 1 February 2025, the whole of Israel greeted with enthusiasm the news of the release of four IDF sentries from Hamas captivity, including Karina Ariyev. After 477 days in captivity, she is back home, among her family, surrounded by a nation that has experienced this pain with her, Time Ukraine Israel reports, citing Vesty.
Karina, a resident of Jerusalem, was released after difficult negotiations that culminated in triumph. In her first post on social media after her release, she thanked the heroic soldiers who gave their lives for her and the other prisoners’ return. She said: “I want to thank all those who did not lose hope, who prayed for me, who helped my family. Without your support, I would not be here today.” Her words did not leave any Israeli indifferent, as this moment became a symbol of the unity and strength of the nation, which managed to withstand even the most terrible trials.
Life after captivity: Risk, courage, bitter memory
In addition to her gratitude and deep appreciation to all those behind her release, Karina promised that she would not forget the sacrifices she made along with other soldiers who died in battle at the Nakhal Oz base. It was there, during a militant attack, that she was captured. In her post, she stressed that her struggle will now be not only to rehabilitate and return to normal life, but also to honour the memory of her fallen comrades: “I will fight for justice and truth together with their families,” she said.
The fact that Karina Ariiev began to talk about her difficult stay in captivity was another stage in her struggle. She is still gradually filling in the gaps in her memories, realising that her experiences were part of a great tragedy experienced by the entire nation. Nevertheless, she does not forget her main task – the return of all those who are still in captivity. “My struggle will not stop until all the hostages return home,” Karina emphasised in her message.
An octopus and a symbol of hope: Family, friends and a waiting school
Karina’s family holds a special place in their hearts for her beloved octopus, a soft toy that became a symbol of her hope for her return. According to her parents and sister, the octopus, which had two faces – a happy face and a sad face – changed its expression depending on whether Karina was at home or away. For more than 477 days, this octopus grieved with the family, waiting for her return. This symbol became part of the family history and part of the larger tragedies that happened to many other families during the war.
Meanwhile, in Pisgat-Zeya, Karina’s home district, residents and the local school are preparing for her return from hospital. The headmaster of the school where Karina studied, Sonia Rafaeli, told us how the whole district has united in support of the girl. The school even created a special installation – the “Prisoner’s Chair” – by painting an ordinary wooden chair yellow, which became a symbol of hope and prayer for her return. This chair stood in the corner of the school, and every student and teacher prayed that Karina would return alive and well.
Plans for the future: a united nation and an indomitable force
After her release, Karina is not only eager to return to normal life, but also to become part of an important mission to help bring home all those who remained in captivity. Her school is waiting for her with flowers and memorable gifts, and is planning to organise a solemn meeting with the local authorities to celebrate her return. For the entire district, this moment was not only a personal victory for the Ariy family, but also a symbol of Israel’s indomitable strength. Pisgat Ze’ev is already preparing to march in honour of her release, bringing together local residents, schoolchildren and teachers in a festive procession.
In the coming weeks, Karina will continue her journey of recovery, fighting for the memory of her fallen friends and devoted comrades and for the return of all those involved in the war home.
