Ex-Israeli Hostage Reveals Sexual Assault in Tel Aviv: “I Felt Safer in Gaza”
Maya Shem says she was drugged and assaulted by a well-known trainer after her release, reigniting debate over post-war trauma and state failure to protect victims.
Watan-In a shocking revelation that reopens questions about post-war conditions in Israel, Maya Shem—a former Israeli hostage held by Hamas—disclosed that she was sexually assaulted in her Tel Aviv apartment after returning from captivity in Gaza.
The incident has sparked widespread shock across Israeli society, reigniting concerns about societal trust, especially in relation to war victims and released soldiers.
Shem, who appeared on several Hebrew-language media outlets, confirmed she was never harmed during her time in Gaza. In fact, she described that period as “safer than after returning,” referencing the assault allegedly committed by a well-known fitness trainer. She accused him of spiking her drink with drugs before sexually assaulting her.
Maya Shem Breaks Silence After Assault and Political Exploitation
Although the case reached court, the suspect was released due to “insufficient evidence”—a decision that enraged Maya and pushed her to break her silence. In a widely circulated clip, she declared, “I won’t stay quiet” about what happened.
It’s worth noting that Maya Shem’s story has long been at the forefront of Israeli media campaigns used to justify military operations in Gaza under the banner of “freeing the hostages.” Her latest disclosure raises deeper concerns over the political exploitation of suffering—while failing to protect or support the victims after their release.
Meanwhile, no official statements have been made by the authorities regarding the investigation’s specifics. Human rights groups continue to demand a transparent and fair reopening of the case.
