Rachel Edry hostage stand-off

On 7 October 2023, a couple in their 60s, Rachel and David Edry (Edri), were held captive in their home in Ofakim, Israel, by Hamas militants during a large-scale invasion from the Gaza Strip. The incident lasted for approximately 20 hours and ended with their successful rescue by Israeli security forces. Following the incident, Rachel Edry gained national fame and became a cultural icon in Israel, symbolizing resilience and courage in the face of adversity. Her image and story were widely circulated in the media, inspiring various forms of artistic expression and becoming a part of popular culture.^[1]

UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly visits the Edry home on 11 October 2023

Background

At the time of the event, Rachel Edry had been working at the Tze'elim Army Base cafeteria for 42 years, and was affectionately called the "mother of the soldiers" for her love and devotion to the soldiers she was serving.^[2]

Time as hostage

On 7 October Rachel Edry, and her husband David, were in their home in Ofakim, a town close to the Gaza Strip, when the attack began. Five Arabic speaking militants, who told Edri that their ages ranged from 25 to 40^[2], broke into their home. Claiming to be the police, they quickly took control, breaking the couple's phones and questioning them while searching the house.^[3][1]

During the hostage situation, Rachel Edry reportedly sang Arabic songs to the hostage takers, engaged them in conversation, offering drinks and food, including Coke, water, and homemade cookies.^[4] Her efforts to maintain a calm demeanor and even joke with the captors are believed to be attempts to buy time and prevent violence until rescue forces could arrive. She also surreptitiously indicated to the police the number of militants holding them captive.^[3][1]

Israeli security forces, including counterterrorism units, were involved in the effort to free the Edrys. Rachel's son, Eviatar, a police officer, who provided valuable information about the layout of the house, played a crucial role in the planning of the rescue operation. Ultimately, the security forces managed to enter the house and rescue Rachel and David Edry, and killed the hostage takers.^[1][4]

Aftermath and cultural impact

Street art of Rachel Edry in Haifa, Israel

A different street art of Rachel Edry
Click here for image

The incident had a significant impact on Israeli society and culture. Rachel Edry, dubbed "Rachel from Ofakim," became a symbol of resilience and courage under pressure. Her story was widely covered in the media, and she became a pop culture icon in Israel. Her image was featured on various items, including T-shirts, and she was portrayed in art and memes, reflecting her status as a symbol of resistance and survival. This transformation into a pop icon was rapid and reflected the broader societal processing of the traumatic events.^[5] Rachel was invited to recount her experience in various high-profile meetings, including one with US President Joe Biden during his visit to Tel Aviv.^[2] Israelis have drawn parallels between Edry and the biblical figure Yael, who famously defeated a wicked general by first giving him food and then taking his life while he slept.^[4]

Edry was selected as one of thirty five torch lighters at the 2025 Israeli Independence Day Torch-lighting Ceremony. Although the ceremony was cancelled due to the 2025 Israel fires, Edry participated in a dress rehearsal of the ceremony which was broadcast on Israeli Television.^[6]

See also

• Gaza war hostage crisis
• Women in the Gaza war