Eliya Cohen and Ziv Abud, survivors of a prolonged hostage ordeal, have begun the difficult process of rebuilding their lives while coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The couple reunited in London after 18 months apart, sharing an emotional embrace that Ziv described as a “very special moment.” Though Eliya was hospitalized for two weeks following his release, physical recovery was only the first step in a much longer healing journey.

Both Eliya and Ziv continue to wrestle with the psychological trauma resulting from their experiences. Ziv highlighted the ongoing challenges, including panic attacks and sleepless nights, underscoring the reality behind the public’s perception of their story as a “fairy tale.” She said, “I have my problems with PTSD, and he has his problems also with PTSD. We have each other now, but it’s a daily struggle.” Ziv started therapy early in anticipation of Eliya’s return, recognizing he would need support to process his trauma.

For Eliya, recovery was initially hindered by survivor’s guilt. For eight months, he avoided treatment, feeling a responsibility to those who remained captive. “I felt so guilty to do something for myself while I knew the conditions in which the other hostages were living,” he explained. Only after the release of other hostages did he feel ready to focus on his own healing.

Shortly after their reunion, they met with Steve Witcoff, the American businessman credited with playing a key role in negotiating their release, in a gathering that included their friends and family. The event also marked a poignant milestone for Ziv, who had previously staged a public protest in Tel Aviv by wearing a wedding dress covered with images of hostages. When Eliya proposed during the reunion, she fulfilled her promise that the next wedding dress she wore would be white. The couple plans to marry on August 19 in Israel, at the location where Hamas attempted to kill them—a symbolic act they view as a “victory.”

Reflecting on their separate coping mechanisms, Ziv attributed her resilience to her faith, emphasizing her unwavering hope that Eliya would return safely. Eliya described his survival strategy as maintaining a resilient mindset despite physical abuse and dehumanization. He recounted severe conditions during captivity: being chained with other hostages for over 490 days, subsisting on minimal food, infrequent access to sanitation, and regular beatings. “They kept us alive just as much as they needed to, so that they could do negotiation, but nothing more,” he said. He also highlighted the ordeal’s humiliating aspects, which Ziv identified as sexual abuse rather than mere humiliation.

Now back in London, the couple is working hard to rebuild their relationship and manage ongoing PTSD symptoms. They emphasized the importance of mutual support and the recognition that, despite their trauma, they have been given a “gift” to move forward together. Their story is part of the Nova Exhibition currently running in London, with proceeds benefiting survivors and bereaved families.