Eliya Cohen Released from Captivity
‘Trump Celebrated as a Hero in Israel’
Following Hostages’ Release
Published October 13, 2025 1:57 PM PDT
Source: TMZ.com
Eliya Cohen, who was a hostage in Gaza, spoke with TMZ about how President Donald Trump has garnered significant support in Israel due to the recent peace agreement, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces more skepticism.
Cohen expressed during his appearance on “TMZ Live,” stating, “In Israel, Trump is regarded as a hero. It’s because of him that I am alive and free.”
Source: CNN
Cohen, who regained his freedom in February, revealed that he endured 505 days of captivity after being abducted by Hamas militants during the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023.
On Monday, Cohen met with Trump before the Israeli parliament gave the President a warm standing ovation. This followed the release of twenty hostages from Gaza as a result of Trump’s peace negotiations.
Trump addressed the nation on Monday, affirming, “This marks not just the conclusion of a war but signifies the end of terror and despair and heralds a new era of faith and hope.”
As part of the agreement, Israel is set to release 250 Palestinian prisoners who are serving life sentences, in addition to approximately 1,700 others detained since the initial Hamas attack.
Cohen believes Trump has positively impacted the lives of hostages and their families. However, he noted that public opinion on Netanyahu varies significantly.
This sentiment was reflected when Netanyahu’s name was met with boos during a recent speech by White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.
In August, Cohen previously revealed to CNN that he was struggling with survivor’s guilt, feeling remorseful for having been released while others remained in captivity.
“I feel guilt every time I eat or take a shower. I feel guilty for receiving medical attention because I know what the others are enduring,” he expressed.
Following their return, Cohen shares a newfound hope for a sustainable peace in the region.
Catch the full discussion on “TMZ Live.”
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