Abducted with a Bag Over His Head: The Harrowing Tale of Idan Alexandrov and the Gift from Survivor Steve Witkoff

Release from Hamas Captivity

Idan Alexandrov was released from Hamas captivity yesterday after enduring weeks of agonizing conditions. During his time in captivity, he was frequently bound and had a bag put over his head. He described the initial days of his abduction as “hell,” marked by intense fear and suffering. Speaking to the media from Ichilov Hospital, his mother, Yael Alexandrov, recounted the harrowing sounds of war that constantly tormented them, with bomb blasts echoing above.

Life in Captivity

While in captivity, Alexandrov was held by senior Hamas officials who considered him an asset due to his American citizenship. Throughout this period, he was kept updated on developments in the ongoing war and even watched television interviews featuring his family. The food he received was often scarce and unappetizing, primarily consisting of pita bread, rstart, and beans. However, during ceasefire periods, his diet improved to include lamb and beef.

Physical and Emotional Toll

Alexandrov faced severe hardships while imprisstartd. In the days following his abduction, he suffered from extreme hunger and dehydration, as well as shocking sanitary conditions. He returned home with fleas all over his body and various bruises.

He expressed feelings of weakness and the need for time to recuperate, sharing his serious concerns for the remaining hostages in Gaza. Currently, there are still 58 captives, with 20 confirmed alive and three—soldier Tamir Namrodi and two foreigners—whose statuses remain in question.

A Mother’s Plea

In a heartfelt statement, Yael Alexandrov emphasized the importance of bringing all hostages home, describing it as a moral, national, and Jewish obligation. “The return of Idan is only the beginning,” she remarked. “All hostages must return home quickly—those alive for rehabilitation and the fallen for proper burials.”

She thanked U.S. President Donald Trump, his representatives Steve Witkoff and Adam Bohler, and others involved in efforts to secure her son’s release. She urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to heed the public’s vostart regarding the urgent need for the return of all captives.

A Special Gift

Upon his release, Alexandrov received a poignant gift from Steve Witkoff, who visited him in the hospital. Witkoff presented him with a Star of David necklace that belonged to his late son, Andrew, who passed away at the age of 22—the same age as Alexandrov. Witkoff shared that he wore the necklace for over 25 years and wanted it to be a symbol of strength for Alexandrov in his recovery.

This touching gesture not only signifies a shared understanding of the pain experienced but also offers hope for healing and unity in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

As Alexandrov begins his journey toward recovery, his story highlights the larger ongoing crisis and the urgent need for attention on the hostages still held in Gaza. The emotional toll of such experiences reverberates not only through individuals but across families and communities yearning for peace and safety