What happened
Avinatan Or, the ex-boyfriend of Noa Argamani, has described his experiences during the October 7, 2023, attack in Gaza. Or and Argamani were at the Nova music festival when they were kidnapped by Hamas terrorists. The incident was captured on video, showing Argamani being taken away on a motorcycle while Or was beaten and taken into Gaza.
Or spent 738 days in captivity, most of which was in total isolation without sunlight, fresh air, or a proper bathroom. He was given false information about Argamani's release and was told she was home, but it was later revealed that she was not freed until 245 days into the war.
During his captivity, Or attempted to escape by digging a tunnel using scraps of plastic and a stolen pickaxe. He was eventually discovered and tortured, but he believes his skills and experiences throughout his life helped him survive. Or has written a memoir, 'Through the Earth,' which describes his time in captivity and his escape attempt.
