Tears, prayer, healing: Galya Hall of Christian Friends of Israel on release of Israeli hostage Rom Braslavski

The release of the hostages in Gaza last month has resulted in profound relief and renewed faith, not only in Israel but also for supporters around the world. In an interview with journalist Paul Calvert, Christian Friends of Israel (CFI) Spokesperson Galya Hall reflected on the harrowing journey leading up to former hostage Rom Braslavski’s recent return and the difficult road ahead for him and his family.

Hall described the moment news of Braslavski’s release broke as overwhelming. “There were tears of joy, there was singing, dancing, jumping, hugging, crying, clapping, giving thanks to God first and foremost, just giving all thanks to God for rescuing Braslavski out of that miry awful pit that he was in and setting his feet back on the soil of Israel.”

For nearly two years, CFI prayed unceasingly for Braslavski after forming a close bond with his mother, Tammy. Members of the organization wore “Bring Rom Home” t-shirts every Friday and stood with the family through constant uncertainty. When Braslavski was finally released from captivity, the team filmed themselves tearing off their shirts in a joyous celebration. As Hall put it, “It was 100% an answer to prayer.”

Braslavski’s choice to speak openly about the torture and sexual abuse he endured in captivity has resonated deeply. Hall said his testimony was not only brave but carried profound spiritual weight.

“He said that he had come back from a meeting with the devil,” she noted. For Hall, that remark conveys the profound spiritual darkness the hostages faced and highlights the miraculous nature of their deliverance.

Hall explained that healing is only beginning for Braslavski and his entire family – emphasizing the need for continued prayer and reminding listeners that liberation does not erase trauma.

Tammy described CFI’s support as a “warm embrace,” a reminder of the quiet compassion the ministry offers while allowing the family privacy and space to rebuild connections and experience deep healing.

Beyond Braslavski's story, Hall also spoke about CFI’s ongoing work, from assisting soldiers and Holocaust survivors to mobilizing worldwide prayer. As the ministry marks its 40th anniversary, Hall hopes that CFI will remain close to the Lord and faithful to its original calling.

Click below to listen to the full interview.

To learn more or connect with CFI, visit www.cfijerusalem.org or follow the organization across all major social media platforms.