Hostage Held By Hamas For 505 Days To Share Harrowing Story In Hamptons

EAST HAMPTON, NY — A young man kidnapped in Israel and held hostage by Hamas for 505 days will share his harrowing story in East Hampton soon, sharing a story of survival, resilience — and hope.

On Sunday, July 14 at 4 p.m., the community will welcome Omer Shemtov, a 21-year-old Israeli who was held hostage by Hamas; the event is being organized by Chabad of The Hamptons and marks the first time a released hostage from Gaza will speak publicly in East Hampton.

Shemtov was kidnapped on October 7, 2023, during the Hamas terror attacks in Israel, and spent more than 16 months in captivity before being released in a negotiated hostage deal, organizers said.

In 2023, the militant Palestinian group Hamas attacked Israel and killed as many as 1,200 people, including children, kidnapping hundreds of others off the street. Among those killed were more than 200 attending a music festival, according to the BBC.

"In this rare and intimate appearance," Shemtov will share his story — and shed light on the experience of those still being held hostage in Gaza today, organizers of the event said.

"We are honored to host Omer in our community," said Rabbi Leibel Baumgarten, director of Chabad of the Hamptons. "He carries a story that belongs not just to him, but to the entire Jewish people. Hearing it is a sacred responsibility."

The event, organizers said, "comes amid ongoing global concern for the remaining hostages still being held by Hamas. Community members and visitors alike are invited to attend and stand in solidarity — not just with Omer, but with all who have suffered in silence."

"Omer’s voice is a living reminder of what so many are still enduring," said Rabbi Aizik Baumgarten of Chabad of East Hampton. "We must listen, we must show up, and we must never turn away. Our presence sends a message: you are not alone"

The event is open to the public. Advance registration is required; location will be provided upon RSVP. To purchase tickets, click here.