Sasha Trupanov in captivity. Photo: i24news.
Islamic Jihad in Gaza has released a video of Sasha Trupanov, who was kidnapped 404 days ago, addressing his family. The footage shows the tired face of a man who has been celebrating his birthday in captivity for the second year in a row, surrounded by a lack of food, water and hygiene products. The family allowed the video to be published, expressing their concern for his health, TimeUkraineIsrael reports with reference to the Israeli publication Ynet.
Captivity and hopelessness: a life of despair
In a short address, Trupanov described the harsh conditions of detention, lack of water, light and basic hygiene, which has already affected his health. “Every time you eat or drink, think of us. We are deprived of this opportunity,” he said, also touching on his longing for his family. The young man, who is being held in an area where hostilities are ongoing, pointed to the danger of his situation and the psychological pressure he is under from his captors.
“Don’t forget about us”: a call to the citizens of Israel
Sasha called on Israelis to continue their protests, stressing that the authorities should pay more attention to the fate of the abductees. “Your demonstrations are hope for us. But the government is still indifferent to our situation,” Trupanov said. The words “please don’t forget about us” became one of his desperate requests to those who remain at large.
A mother’s call for rescue
Olena Trupanova, Sasha’s mother, a survivor of captivity herself, said that although she was glad to see her son alive, his face reflected despair and hopelessness. “My dear son, I ask you to be strong and hold on. We will not stop fighting for you,” she said, appealing to the Israeli government to release her son immediately.
Kibbutz Nir Oz: community commentary and community pain
The kibbutz Nir Oz, from which Trupanov was abducted, reacted painfully to the release of the video. The community expressed outrage at the policy that does not facilitate the release of the abductees and appealed to world leaders to return the 101 people, including 29 citizens of their kibbutz. “Every day that they remain there, we relive that terrible day of 7 October all over again,” the kibbutz said in a statement.
A prayer for liberation and a call for unity
The headquarters of the families of the abductees emphasises the urgency of returning all the captives, both alive for rehabilitation and dead for proper burial on their native land. Recalling the latest hostage deal, Olena Trupanova said: “When there is too much talk, there will be no deal.” The woman said that her faith, the support of people and the warm words she hears on the street keep her going. “Our hearts are with you,” strangers say to her, reminding her of the unity in the common desire to bring all the abductees home.
