Former hostage Mia Schem cancels wedding just four months after engagement as shock split is revealed

Shem, a survivor of Hamas captivity, made the decision to part ways with her partner, Yinon Hasson, just four months after their emotional engagement ceremony in Caesarea.

The couple, who had been childhood friends, began their romantic relationship only after Shem returned from captivity in November 2023. Hasson proposed to Shem in an intimate and heartfelt ceremony in Caesarea that same month. However, despite their strong bond, the emotional toll of the past few months appears to have taken its toll on their relationship.

Shem, 22, has become a public figure since her release from captivity, giving numerous interviews and speeches to raise awareness about the horrors she faced and to call for the release of those still held hostage. Recently, Shem opened up about her traumatic experiences during a podcast interview on “Echad Beyom” by N12. She recounted her physical and emotional struggles during captivity, including an incident where she woke up in a different bed and realized the trauma she had suffered. "I was in so much pain and my body was in shock," she shared. She also described how she feared being pregnant as a result of her captivity, and how relief came only after medical tests confirmed she was not.

The decision to end the engagement came about two months ago, though Shem requested that the separation remain private until now. The news shocked many, especially after the couple had shared their engagement joy publicly. Shem's followers had already suspected a change after noticing that the engagement photos had been removed from her social media.

In addition to her activism for hostage awareness, Shem’s post-captivity life has included significant public appearances, including at the White House, the United Nations, and events such as the Oscars and Elton John’s after-party, where she advocated for the continued fight to free hostages. She also signed with the Roberto Ben Shushan talent agency and participated in a bridal campaign with designer Riki Dalal.

Maya Shem’s strength and resilience continue to inspire many, but her personal journey remains complicated as she navigates life after the traumatic events of October 7th. The split, while hushed until now, reflects the lingering weight of her trauma. As she continues her global mission, the canceled wedding underscores the steep personal toll of survival, even for a figure as resilient as Schem.