Kidnapping of Rimon and Yagev Buchshtav

On October 7, 2023, Israeli couple Rimon Kirsht Buchshtav (born 1987) and Yagev Buchshtav (born January 23, 1989) were abducted from Kibbutz Nirim by Hamas terrorists during a large-scale attack in southern Israel. The couple, who shared a passion for music and rescuing abandoned animals, were hiding in the safe room of their home when they were captured.

Early Life and Personal Background
Rimon and Yagev met in high school and reconnected years later, marrying in 2021. They share a passion for creating music and rescuing abandoned animals. Yagev is known for building his musical instruments, including electric guitars, and works as a musician and soundman. The couple resided in Kibbutz Nirim, where they were involved in their community and cared for numerous pets, including five cats and five dogs. Rimon worked in alternative medicine.

October 7, 2023 Abduction
On the morning of October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists infiltrated Kibbutz Nirim as part of a coordinated massacre in southern Israel. Rimon and Yagev were hiding in the safe room of their home when Rimon texted her family about the fire and gunfire outside. Yagev told his mother that he could hear voices speaking Arabic and later that the terrorists were shooting at his window. This was their last communication with their families. The Israeli army found signs of a struggle, blood, and bullet holes in their safe room, and it took a week before the army could confirm that both Rimon and Yagev had been abducted to Gaza. Their family pets were also missing.

Captivity and Rimon’s Release
Rimon and Yagev were held together in Gaza, which provided some comfort to them during their captivity. On November 28, 2023, Rimon was released as part of a hostage-prisoner exchange deal between Israel and Hamas. Despite her initial resistance to leaving without her husband, Rimon was forced to go with the guards. Upon her release, Rimon displayed defiance towards her captors and refused to participate in their propaganda videos.

Yagev's Status
Following Rimon's release, Hamas claimed that Yagev had died due to a lack of medicine and food. This claim is part of Hamas's psychological warfare tactics and has not been independently verified. Yagev's family and community continue to hope for his safe return.