jpost.com
Gaza Hostage Eliya Cohen Remains Isolated, Girlfriend Campaigns for Release
Eliya Cohen, held captive in Gaza since October 7th, 2023, remains isolated from news of the outside world, including the deaths of loved ones, while his girlfriend, Ziv Abud, a survivor of the Hamas attack, actively campaigns for his release, alongside his mother who knows his location based on released hostages.
- How do Ziv Abud's experiences and actions reflect the broader impact of the October 7 attack and the ongoing conflict?
- Abud's social media posts highlight the emotional toll of Cohen's captivity, emphasizing his isolation and the contrast between his suffering and the support he receives. Her experiences during the October 7 attack underscore the brutality of the conflict and its impact on individuals. Cohen's mother confirms his location with other released hostages, highlighting the network of captives and the shared ordeal.
- What is the current status of Eliya Cohen, and what are the immediate implications of his prolonged captivity and isolation?
- Eliya Cohen, held captive in Gaza since October 7, 2023, remains completely cut off from news about the outside world, including the deaths of friends and family, according to his girlfriend Ziv Abud. Abud, who survived the Hamas attack, is actively campaigning for his release. Sixteen hostages have been released so far, with Cohen expected in the first phase of releases.
- What are the long-term psychological and emotional consequences likely to affect Eliya Cohen upon his release, given his prolonged isolation and the events he has witnessed?
- The case of Eliya Cohen exemplifies the human cost of the Gaza conflict, illustrating the prolonged suffering of hostages and families. His eventual release, part of a larger prisoner exchange, raises questions about the process and the ongoing uncertainty for other captives. The contrast between Abud's activism and Cohen's isolation underscores the complexities of the situation.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing heavily prioritizes the emotional impact on Ziv Abud and her personal account. While this is understandable given the context, this emphasis might unintentionally overshadow the larger political and humanitarian dimensions of the hostage crisis. The headline (if there was one) and introduction likely focused on Abud's emotional journey and her actions, potentially drawing the reader's attention away from other critical aspects of the conflict and the overall situation.
Language Bias
The language used is largely empathetic and emotionally charged, reflecting the sensitive nature of the subject. However, phrases such as "death bunker" and descriptions of Abud's trauma could be considered emotionally loaded. While accurate, these terms are inherently dramatic and could unintentionally amplify the sense of despair. More neutral alternatives might include 'shelter' and more clinical descriptions of the events. Repeated emphasis on suffering and pain could also skew the tone, albeit unintentionally, towards a more emotionally driven narrative than a strictly factual one.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on Ziv Abud's emotional experience and her relationship with Eliya Cohen, but omits details about the broader political context of the hostage situation and the ongoing conflict. While Abud's perspective is understandably central, omitting wider political analysis might limit readers' understanding of the complexities surrounding the hostage crisis and the reasons behind it. The article also lacks information about potential negotiations or diplomatic efforts for the release of hostages.
False Dichotomy
The narrative presents a somewhat simplified view by focusing intensely on the personal story of Ziv Abud and Eliya Cohen, without explicitly acknowledging the diverse range of experiences among other hostages and their families. This could inadvertently create a false dichotomy, implying that this one couple's story represents the entire situation, thereby neglecting the many other narratives and the varying degrees of suffering experienced.
Gender Bias
The article centers on Ziv Abud's emotional response and personal journey, which is valid, however, it's crucial to note that it primarily features a female perspective. While this perspective is important, it's worth considering whether including perspectives from male hostages, their families or other involved parties would offer a more balanced representation. The description of Abud in her red evening gown, while possibly intended to evoke emotion, could be seen as emphasizing her appearance in a way that might not be done for male figures in similar circumstances.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the ongoing captivity of Eliya Cohen, a civilian held hostage by Hamas. This situation directly undermines peace, justice, and the stability of institutions. The impact is negative due to the violation of human rights, the suffering inflicted on Cohen and his family, and the broader implications for regional stability and international law. The lack of immediate action to secure his release further exacerbates the negative impact on peace and justice.