In a chilling account of survival, an American-Israeli mother, Judith Raanan, has shared the harrowing experience of being held hostage by Hamas militants along with her daughter, Natalie, for two tense weeks last year. The duo were the first hostages to be released following the militant group's violent incursion into southern Israel, claiming the lives of approximately 1,200 people and taking around 200 individuals captive.

During an exclusive interview on NewsNation's "Elizabeth Vargas Reports," Raanan detailed the terrifying moments leading to her capture. She revealed that she and her daughter were sleeping in a guest house near the Gaza border when the Hamas attacks commenced. Alarmed by the sound of gunfire, they were suddenly confronted with the imminent threat.

Raanan recounted how she urgently instructed her daughter about the impending danger. Sharing the profound sense of fear, she assured Natalie not to panic, as armed militants were about to break through their door. She further described these armed captors brandishing "big weapons" and a "big bomb," instilling a deep sense of terror.

In the midst of their captivity, Raanan revealed her daughter's fears of being subjected to sexual assault. Assuaging Natalie's concerns, she promised her safety and protection, staunchly refusing to let any harm befall her. The ordeal, likened to a game of Russian roulette, filled both mother and daughter with profound uncertainty, as they grappled with the constant threat to their lives.

In an attempt to bring solace and calmness to her daughter, Raanan sang Louis Armstrong's timeless classic, "What a Wonderful World." However, Natalie, understandably shaken by their circumstances, expressed her doubts about the appropriateness of the song. Undeterred, Raanan underscored their resilience, reminding her daughter of their unwavering strength and Jewish heritage.

Throughout their ordeal, prayer became a constant companion for Raanan and Natalie. The mother-daughter duo turned to their faith, seeking solace and strength in their conversations with Hashem. In their prayers, they found a source of hope and resilience amidst the unimaginable horrors they faced.

The release of Judith Raanan and her daughter marked the first glimmer of hope in the midst of a devastating hostage situation orchestrated by Hamas militants. Their survival and resilience in the face of unimaginable terror serve as a testament to the unwavering human spirit during the darkest of times.

As the world continues to grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event, Raanan's story brings to light the enduring human capacity for endurance, faith, and fortitude in the face of unspeakable adversity.