Eli Sharabi was released from Hamas captivity last Saturday after 494 harrowing days. His wife, two daughters, and brother were murdered in the October 7 massacre at Kibbutz Be'eri, and his home was destroyed.
Today, on his birthday, a crowdfunding campaign was launched to aid his recovery. The campaign, initiated by Sharon Adam, a close friend of Eli's, aims to raise one million shekels or more in 24 hours to help him rebuild his life.
Sharabi's images, which were passed from Hamas to the Red Cross, shocked people in Israel and around the world. His emaciated and pale appearance was stark evidence of the abuse suffered by male prisoners in captivity. Furthermore, it was only upon his return to Israel, and after contacting his family, that he learned of the tragic news: his wife, daughters, and brother had been murdered.
On October 7, Sharabi lost his wife Lian, and daughters Noya and Yahel, who were killed by Hamas. He also lost his brother Yossi, who was kidnapped by Hamas and murdered in captivity, along with his home at Kibbutz Be'eri.
Upon his return from captivity, Sharabi had to cope not only with his physical condition and the trauma of imprisonment but also with the total loss of the life he had known. His family and friends are calling on the Israeli public to help him, understanding that the road to recovery will be long and difficult, but it must start with the immediate support he desperately needs.
