Former Hostage Luis Har Says Captor Shared Selective Soccer Updates During 129 Days in Gaza

Luis Har described in a July 19, 2026 interview how one captor selectively relayed soccer match results during his captivity in Gaza. The updates focused on Lionel Messi and included Argentina's 1-0 win against Brazil in December 2023, with all information filtered to suit the captor's preferences. Har said the conversations remained limited to that single source throughout the 129 days.

He recounted being informed that his captors had all been killed following the rescue operation in Rafah. Guards positioned in a neighboring building or downstairs were eliminated immediately, and a grenade was thrown toward the house, he added. Har believes the remaining captors died during the military action.

Har also reflected on soccer's capacity to connect people across divides. He voiced optimism about sports bridging gaps while criticizing instances of political displays at venues, such as an Egyptian coach appearing with a Palestinian flag.