
Former Iran hostage Barry Rosen celebrates Israel-Hamas cease-fire, reflecting on his own 444-day captivity and empathizing with current hostages.
At a Glance
- Barry Rosen, held captive in Iran for 444 days, expresses joy over Israel-Hamas cease-fire deal
- Rosen draws parallels between his experience and current Israeli hostages, noting Iran’s involvement
- He emphasizes the importance of support for hostages and families to recover from trauma
- Rosen’s wife, Barbara, relates to the emotional rollercoaster faced by families of current hostages
- Of approximately 250 hostages taken on October 7, 2023, 98 remain captive, including seven Americans
Rosen’s Personal Experience and Empathy
Barry Rosen, a survivor of the 1979 Iranian hostage crisis, has found himself reliving his traumatic past as he watches the unfolding situation with Hamas-held hostages in Israel. Rosen’s 444-day ordeal during the Iranian revolution has given him a unique perspective on the current conflict and its impact on those held captive.
During his captivity, Rosen experienced severe hardship and manipulation, including being held in a dark prison, threatened with execution, and forced to falsely confess to being a spy. These experiences have left an indelible mark on his life, shaping his identity and driving his advocacy for hostage support.
Upon hearing news of the Israel-Hamas cease-fire agreement, Rosen expressed overwhelming joy and relief. The prospect of hostage releases stirred powerful emotions, reminding him of his own moment of liberation decades ago.
“I hugged my wife, Barbara. It’s almost as if I was there with them – it was a great moment to hear,” Barry Rosen said.
Drawing from his own experiences, Rosen emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive support systems for both hostages and their families. The trauma of captivity can have long-lasting effects, and proper psychological care is essential for recovery.
While Rosen acknowledges that his experience as a hostage will always be a part of him, he also sees potential for a fulfilling life post-captivity.