Freed Gaza hostages get engaged

Troufanov confessed that there were moments he despaired of ever going free and prayed that Cohen would find someone else to spend her life with so she wouldn’t be alone.

By World Israel News Staff

Sasha Troufanov and Sapir Cohen, a couple who were captured by terrorists on October 7 and later released, have announced that they are engaged to be married.

Theirs was among the many tearful and moving reunions witnessed during hostage releases, with Troufanov embracing his mother along with the woman who would become his fiancée.

Troufanov and Cohen were visiting his home in Nir Oz for the holiday of Simchat Torah in 2023 when terrorists invaded, killed Troufanov’s father, Vitaly, and captured his mother, Yelena, and his grandmother, Irina.

The women were all released during the first truce in November 2023. Troufanov endured a much longer captivity until he was finally released and reunited with his family and the love of his life in January 2025.

Troufanov, kidnapped by Islamic Jihad, confessed upon his release that there were moments he despaired of ever going free and prayed that Cohen would find someone else to spend her life with so she wouldn’t be alone.

The couple announced their engagement on social media, with Cohen displaying a ring he had given her.

They have not publicly announced a wedding date.

Yelena Troufanov, along with numerous volunteers, gathered clothing and other supplies for those who were injured and lost their homes and possessions during Iran’s missile attacks.

“If I made it through everything I’ve faced and can now help others, then I believe anything is possible,” she told Ynet. “The evacuees are glad to see me. They say it gives them hope.”

“People from across the country have brought things here,” she added, noting a business owner from Ashkelon who donated brand-new items from her shop. “This truly reflects the spirit of our people.”

During a visit with evacuees, Ramat Gan Mayor Carmel Shama-Hacohen met Yelena Troufanov at the donation center and was profoundly touched. “The emotional resilience she shows—overcoming her trauma to support displaced families—is nothing short of remarkable,” he said.

“If I’m able to help others through difficult times, why wouldn’t I?” Troufanov responded.

“I really hope the success of the campaign with Iran helps bring all of our hostages home—and soon. They’re out of time. The living need a chance to heal, and the fallen deserve a proper burial in Israel. That is our moral duty.