Unforgettable Encounter of Faith, Courage & Unity with Former Hostages Sapir Cohen and Sasha Troufanov

Thank you to all who joined us for Hope & Faith in Gaza’s Terror Tunnel with Sapir Cohen and Sasha Troufanov. It was an encounter of deep emotion, resilience, and togetherness, as we gathered to hear from their firsthand testimony.  This gathering was more than an event, it was an expression of Jewish unity and our collective promise to bring light to the darkest places.

We bore witness to the stories of Sapir and Sasha, who were kidnapped from Nir Oz and brutally separated in captivity. Sapir endured 55 days in Gaza's tunnels, while Sasha survived 498 harrowing days. Through unimaginable darkness and isolation, they clung to faith, identity, and Hashem’s insvisible hand. Their words reminded us of the deep power of Jewish perseverance and emunah (faith) in the face of terror.

In this rare and intimate conversation, Sapir and Sasha opened their hearts and allowed us to feel just a fraction of their pain and their strength. They spoke of how they survived by holding on to hope, to Hashem, and to the dream of one day reuniting with family and community. Their courage reignited our commitment to those still in captivity and those who are healing. The event also served as a channel for tzedakah, offering Sapir, Sasha, and other survivors critical emotional and financial support. Our community stood tall together with tears, prayers, and purpose.

Their story is one that must be heard.

Included below are photos from the program that reflect the unity and emotion we all felt that day. These moments are now part of our collective memory and mission as Am Yisrael.  Thank you again for standing with us, for caring so deeply, and for ensuring their voices continue to echo across the Jewish world. May we continue to bring light where there is darkness and hope where there is despair.

We thank Keith Rubenstein for co moderating and Jay and Terri Bialsky for hosting the reception following the event.