Toronto, Ontario – An Israeli volunteer, Irene Nurith Cohn, has come forward to share her harrowing experience in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack. Cohn, part of a delegation with Zaka, a humanitarian organization, was on the ground in Israel following the devastating attack. She has since spoken out about the gruesome task of collecting the bodies of the victims.
During an emotional interview, Cohn described the horrific scenes she witnessed, including mutilated bodies and brutal murders. She shared images with CTV News Toronto, revealing the graphic aftermath of the attack that claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 Israeli citizens. Cohn emphasized the importance of raising awareness and ensuring that the world understands the true extent of the tragedy.
Despite the graphic nature of the work, Cohn volunteered to assist in the recovery efforts, demonstrating immense strength and dedication. As a social worker and experienced scuba diver specialized in body recovery, she spent months commuting long hours to the affected areas, where she helped bag bodies, cleaned the houses of the victims, and collected ashes from burned individuals.
In a meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other government officials, Cohn shared her testimony, shedding light on the horrors she witnessed and the need to provide closure to the families of the deceased. She expressed her feelings of privilege and pride in being able to contribute to the recovery efforts, highlighting the importance of giving the victims a proper burial.
The Oct. 7 terror attack in Israel has sparked a prolonged conflict, resulting in a high death toll on both sides. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reported a significant number of Palestinian casualties as a consequence of the ongoing violence. Cohn’s brave actions and willingness to speak out serve as a poignant reminder of the human cost of such tragic events.
For those struggling with trauma or seeking support, various resources are available to provide assistance in times of crisis. From helplines to counseling services, individuals can access support networks to help them navigate through difficult situations and find the help they need.