Toronto, Canada – Irene Nurith Cohn, an Israeli volunteer who witnessed the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas terror attack in Israel, is now sharing her harrowing experience of collecting bodies with the world. Cohn, part of a delegation with Zaka, a humanitarian organization, is speaking out about the brutal murders that claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 Israeli citizens.
During an emotional interview, Cohn described the scenes she encountered as she and her colleagues gathered the bodies of the victims. She displayed disturbing images of mutilated bodies, illustrating the horrific aftermath of the attack, including beheadings and other gruesome injuries.
Despite the graphic nature of her work, Cohn, a social worker by profession and an experienced scuba diver specializing in body recovery, felt compelled to help give the deceased a proper burial and provide closure to their families. She devoted months to the task, commuting long hours to clean the homes of the murdered and collect remains from burned vehicles.
Recently, Cohn met with top Canadian officials, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, to share her testimony and raise awareness about the devastating impact of the attack. She reflected on her role in the recovery effort, emphasizing that she simply did what she believed was right, without seeking recognition as a hero.
The Oct. 7 terror attack in Israel triggered a prolonged conflict, leading to thousands of casualties on both sides. The ongoing violence has taken a toll on Gaza, with the Health Ministry reporting a significant number of Palestinian deaths as a result.
In light of Cohn’s story and the traumatic events she experienced, it is essential to provide resources for individuals struggling with trauma or in crisis. Various support centers and helplines are available to assist those dealing with sexual assault or other forms of violence, offering advocacy, counseling, and immediate assistance to those in need.