Overview
- Shem Tov took the stage at Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest in Arizona to recount his 505 days in captivity and to honor the late founder Charlie Kirk.
- He told Jewish Insider he chose the forum because he sees growing antisemitic and anti‑Israel statements on the American right and wants to reinforce the U.S.–Israel partnership.
- Detailing life in Hamas tunnels, he described forced labor and recounted refusing an order to detonate a booby‑trapped house as Israeli soldiers moved nearby.
- He credited President Donald Trump with assisting in his release and said Hamas showed fear after the 2024 U.S. election, later thanking Trump from the stage.
- TPUSA spokesman Andrew Kolvet hailed his heroism and framed hopes for durable Gaza peace in terms of Trump’s leadership, while Shem Tov reiterated his advocacy until the remains of Ran Gvili are returned.