Omer Shem Tov, a former hostage, was taken by Hamas during the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023, where he endured 505 days of captivity.
Following his release, Shem Tov revealed to a reporter that during his imprisonment, it became evident that Hamas held a profound fear of Donald Trump, suggesting they had a preference for Kamala Harris to win the presidency.
In response to the abduction of their son, Shem Tov’s parents helped establish the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.
Since gaining his freedom, Omer has embarked on a journey around the globe to advocate for the release of those still held captive.
In a recent discussion, Shem Tov recounted his harrowing experience as a hostage. He noted:
Omer Shem Tov: “Once Donald Trump was elected, it became clear to them that he aimed to facilitate our return,” he stated. “This pivotal change was reflected in how I was treated.”
“He was a force who seemed to be getting results. Suddenly, the environment shifted. Initially, it felt as though nothing was progressing. But as soon as he took office, I sensed a stark change in their demeanor towards me.”
Reporter: Who exactly was afraid?
Omer Shem Tov: The militants were intimidated by Trump’s approach. They were very much hoping for Kamala to be the victor.
Reporter: So, you engaged them in political discussions?
Omer Shem Tov: Yes. They expressed a desire for Kamala to win. But the moment Trump assumed office, their attitude towards me shifted dramatically…
“It was undeniable; from the point Trump became president, my treatment noticeably improved. They offered me more food and ceased the derogatory behavior.”
Citing Ryan Saavedra.
Former hostage Omer Shem Tov claims Hamas was “very scared of” Trump: “They wanted Kamala to be elected.”
“The moment Donald Trump took office, they realized he was aiming to bring us back home,” he stated. “Instantly, the quality of my treatment changed.” pic.twitter.com/Mazc9shpfU
— Ryan Saavedra (@RealSaavedra) October 13, 2025
Jim Hoft is the visionary founder and editor of The Gateway Pundit, a leading conservative news outlet in America. He was honored with the Reed Irvine Accuracy in Media Award in 2013 and is a proud recipient of the Breitbart Award for Excellence in Online Journalism from the Americans for Prosperity Foundation in May 2016. In 2023, The Gateway Pundit was recognized with the Most Trusted Print Media Award at the American Liberty Awards.
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