He Refused to Flee Nova
The Face of Resilience: Israel Katz Honors Freed Hostage Bar Kupershtein | WATCH
Defense Minister Israel Katz visits Bar Kupershtein, the brave former hostage who saved lives at Nova Festival before his capture.
In a poignant display of gratitude and national commitment, Defense Minister Israel Katz paid an emotional visit to recently released hostage Bar Kupershtein at Sheba Hospital today, October 15, 2025. Kupershtein, a young man whose bravery turned him into a symbol of resilience amidst the October 7 tragedy, was abducted by Hamas terrorists while actively saving lives at the Nova music festival near Re'im.
From Rave to Rescue: Bar Kupershtein's Story
The details surrounding Bar Kupershtein's abduction highlight a moment of profound selflessness. An off-duty soldier, Kupershtein was attending the festival when the coordinated Hamas assault began. Instead of fleeing, he immediately leveraged his military training, transforming the chaotic festival grounds into a makeshift triage area. According to a statement released by the Defense Minister’s office, Kupershtein provided crucial medical aid to numerous injured festival-goers, stabilizing the wounded and attempting to protect others from the barrage of gunfire and rockets.
His heroic efforts continued until he was ultimately overwhelmed and forcibly taken captive by the terrorists, becoming one of the hundreds pulled into Gaza. His actions in those terrifying moments, putting his own life and freedom at risk to save others, have become a powerful testament to the unwavering spirit of those under attack.
The Visit and National Commitment
During the meeting, Minister Katz listened intently as Kupershtein recounted the harrowing details of his time in captivity. The Minister’s office confirmed that Katz thanked him profusely for his exceptional bravery on October 7, directly acknowledging the life-saving medical treatment he provided before his own capture. Kupershtein’s story encapsulates the duality of the victims of the attack: young civilians and soldiers thrust into a brutal battle for survival.
Katz used the meeting to reiterate the Israeli government's primary objectives. He underscored the unwavering commitment to returning every remaining hostage, both the living and the fallen, stating this mission stands as the paramount national priority. This commitment, Katz emphasized, is intrinsically linked to the long-term goals of disarming and demilitarizing the Hamas terror organization to ensure such an attack can never occur again.
Bar Kupershtein’s safe, though late, return is a source of immense relief for his family and the nation, yet his ordeal serves as a constant, stark reminder of the sacrifices still being demanded and the fundamental pledge to bring all of Israel's captives home.