Carmel Gat

Carmel Gat, often referred to as Mely, is the firstborn child of Eshel and Kinneret. Her parents met in Tel Aviv, both young kibbutz members. After their wedding, they chose to settle down in the beautiful Kibbutz Be’eri. There they had three children: Carmel, Alon and Or.
Carmel studied occupational therapy and later moved to live in Tel Aviv. Her friends describe her as an extraordinary woman with a strong spirit and determination. She is not very spiritual, but very grounded.
In the summer of 2023, Carmel traveled to India (again) for a few months. She returned home on October 1, just in time for the family gathering planned for the Simchat Torah holiday.
On Saturday October 7, Hamas terrorists launched an unprecedented murderous attack on southern Israel. The terrorists infiltrated Kibbutz Be’eri, among other communities, murdered and kidnapped many people, most of whom were innocent civilians. They murdered Kinneret, Carmel’s mother, and abducted Carmel to Gaza. Carmel’s father saw her being kidnapped from home. Carmel’s sister-in-law, Yarden Roman Gat, was kidnapped alongside her. Fortunately, Yarden was released as part of a temporary cease-fire deal in late November.
Hostages who were held in captivity with Carmel, and were later freed, testify that she initiated yoga and meditation sessions, and thanks to her, they maintained composure. Mely’s family and community are anxiously awaiting her safe return home.