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Israeli Hostage Mia Schem Recounts Hamas Abduction and Survival

Mia Schem, a 21-year-old Israeli, details her harrowing experience after being shot and held hostage by Hamas for 55 days during the October 7 attacks.

Editorial Desk

July 19, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — City, Country — Mia Schem, a 21-year-old Israeli, has recounted her harrowing experience of being shot by Hamas militants at point-blank range and held hostage for 55 days following the October 7 attacks.

Schem was among those abducted during the surprise assault on southern Israel, which resulted in numerous casualties and hostages taken into Gaza. She sustained a gunshot wound to the arm during the initial attack.

In an interview with Caspar Barnes, Schem detailed her captivity — and the moments leading up to her abduction. “They shot me at point-blank range,” she recalled, describing the terrifying ordeal.

Despite the trauma, Schem maintained her resolve throughout her captivity. “I never gave up,” she emphasized, highlighting her determination to survive.

The October 7 attacks marked a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, leading to widespread international condemnation and calls for the safe return of all hostages.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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