Released Hostage Warns of Global Spread of Evil After 505 Days in Hamas Captivity

Omer Shem Tov, an Israeli man held hostage by Hamas for 505 days, has publicly described his ordeal and issued a stark warning about the spread of terrorism. He was captured at the Nova Music Festival on October 7, 2023, and spent the final months of his captivity in the tunnel network beneath Gaza.

Speaking at the Turning Point USA AmericaFest event in Arizona, Shem Tov framed the conflict as a global battle between good and evil. He condemned Hamas for using civilian infrastructure for military purposes and targeting people based on their religion.

In an interview, Shem Tov detailed his captivity, stating he was forced to perform manual labor, including digging and moving explosives. He survived on minimal rations despite seeing large stockpiles of food controlled by Hamas.

He credited his release in February 2025 to the intervention of former President Donald Trump, claiming his captors feared Trump's election. Shem Tov said the treatment he received changed after the U.S. election result.

The 23-year-old also reflected on finding faith during his imprisonment and paid tribute to the late Turning Point USA founder, Charlie Kirk. Shem Tov connected attacks in Israel to violence in other countries, arguing this demonstrates a widespread extremist threat.

He expressed strong support for Trump, whom he met after his release, stating he believes the former president was instrumental in securing the freedom of hostages. As part of broader exchange deals, Israel has released numerous Palestinian prisoners.

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