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Rom Braslavski in October 2023 (Photo: Screenshot from social media used under section 27A of the copyright law)
Russian-Israeli hostage Alexander (Sasha) Trufanov , who was released from Hamas captivity in February, revealed that he spent time in Gaza with Rom Braslavski, marking the first sign of life from Braslavski after 517 days in captivity.
While Trufanov is extremely grateful for his regained freedom, he is concerned about the remaining hostages in Gaza.
“I am speaking today with a message I cannot keep just for my loved ones,” Trufanov stated in a video message . “On one hand, I am so happy to be home, to see my mother, my dear friends, my girlfriend, and all the people who prayed and hoped for me. But on the other hand, I cannot disconnect from the hostages who are still there in Gaza, the people left behind.”
He specifically addressed his fellow hostage Braslavski.
“I think a lot about my friends, especially about one person I met briefly in captivity – Rom Braslavski,” Trufanov stated. “Rom, I hope my voice brings you light and hope in the dark place where you are. I want you to know that I, your friends, your family, and all of Israel are praying for you and doing everything to secure your release.”
Trufanov concluded in the Arabic language, saying: “I hope this message reaches you. Stay strong and don’t give up. We are with you and praying for you. The redemption of captives is a supreme value in Judaism – please, do not leave them behind. Do everything possible to bring them home safely and as quickly as possible.”
It is unclear why Trufanov used Arabic in his message to Braslavski but he may have hoped it would encourage Hamas to keep Braslavski alive in anticipation of Israel agreeing to release more convicted terrorists in exchange for his freedom.
Russia, which maintains good ties with the Hamas terrorist organization reportedly facilitated the release of Trufanov, who is a dual Russian-Israeli citizen.
In late January, Russian Ambassador to Israel Anatoly Viktorov voiced concerns over Trufanov’s deteriorating health in captivity.
“We hope that in the remaining few days, his health condition will not worsen,” Viktorov said .
Despite the decline in Russian-Israeli relations following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its alliance with Iran, he nonetheless welcomed the release of Israeli hostages.
“We welcome the release of three Israelis as part of the agreement reached between Israel and Hamas,” the Russian ambassador stated. “We hope that our compatriot Alexander Trufanov will also return home safely in the near future.”
Trufanov was eventually released in February and was reunited with his mother, grandmother and girlfriend. His father was murdered by Hamas terrorists during the Hamas massacre.
Braslavski, a Jerusalem native, was kidnapped by Hamas terrorists from the Nova music festival on Oct. 7, 2023, where he worked as a security guard. Several survivors of the Nova massacre have credited him with saving their lives.
Braslavski’s father, Ofir, emphasized that Israel needs to bring back all remaining hostages, including his son.
“I came here to deliver a clear and urgent message: Our mission will only be complete when all the hostages are back home,” Ofir said.
“Rom was kidnapped while rescuing people from the massacre. He showed unimaginable bravery, risking his life to save others. Now, it’s our turn to save him. How can it be that someone who sacrificed himself for others is not considered a humanitarian case?” he asked .
“Rom, you are a hero. We love you and are with you. We will fight for you until our last drop of blood,” his father vowed.
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