Karina Ariev, 20, Daniella Gilboa, 20, Naama Levy, 20, and Liri Albag, 19 were freed from Hamas captivity during the current hostage deal, orchestrated by US President Donald Trump.
The photo of Naama being kidnapped in her pajamas, with bloodied pants, and dragged into a Hamas car quickly went viral after the October 7th attack, with many expressing deep concern for her welfare.
In her first public statement since release, she shared her harrowing experience of 477 days in captivity, revealing how solidarity with fellow captives helped her survive the ordeal.
"I'm finally home, safe and protected," Levy wrote in a moving social media post Tuesday, describing her gradual recovery surrounded by family and friends. The young woman, who worked as a military lookout before her capture, detailed spending the first 50 days after October 7 in isolation before being united with other hostages.
"Being with my fellow lookouts and other civilian captives gave me strength and hope," Levy said. "We strengthened each other until our release day and continue to do so now." Her statement highlighted the powerful bonds formed between hostages, which survivors say have proven crucial to their recovery process.
But Levy's message also carried a poignant reminder that others remain in captivity. "We're waiting for Agam and the rest of the hostages so we can complete our healing journey together," she wrote, referencing fellow IDF scout Agam Berger and the many others still held in Gaza.
In a particularly touching moment, she acknowledged the nationwide effort to secure the hostages' freedom: "Even while in captivity, I saw you fighting for me," she told the Israeli public and military forces. "Thank you everyone, I love you."
The statement offers a rare glimpse into both the isolation and solidarity experienced by hostages, while underscoring the ongoing trauma faced by those who have returned - and those who haven't.
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