Rami Davidian, who played a central role in rescuing hundreds of people during the October 7 terror attack at the Nova music festival, appeared Thursday in a powerful and emotional interview on the podcast Et HaKol with Nataly Dadon, just days before the release of a controversial investigative report about him on Channel 13.
In the interview, Davidian spoke openly about the severe emotional struggles he has faced since the attack—especially in recent weeks. He revealed that, overwhelmed by post-traumatic stress, he had reached a breaking point:
“In the past three days, I thought about ending it. I didn’t even have the strength to get up—I didn’t want to breathe,” he said through tears.
Davidian continued, “For me, saving lives isn’t about how many. If people only understood how I acted on the ground—even the IDF wasn’t there. I kept asking myself, why didn’t anyone come to help me?”
“I’m not looking for honor or money”
Despite the criticism, Davidian made it clear:
“I’m not looking for honor or money. I’ve worked my whole life, I grew up without a father, and I don’t need this denial. If it hadn’t been for October 7, I would still be making an honest living.”
“In our country, you have to die to be a hero”
Podcast host Nataly Dadon, who is leading a public campaign to recognize Davidian’s heroism, added:
“Unfortunately, in our country, you have to die to be considered a hero.”
The podcast sparked a wave of reactions on social media, where users voiced strong support for Davidian and harshly condemned the criticism directed at him. At the same time, the grassroots campaign to officially recognize Davidian’s actions has gained traction. Nataly Dadon launched an online petition calling for full national recognition of his bravery.
“We’re not counting how many lives he saved”
The petition, which has already been signed by thousands, reads:
“Rami Davidian chose to stay under fire. He didn’t run. While others were in hiding, he saved lives—risking himself again and again. We’re not counting how many people he saved. What matters is that he was there, in the moment that counted.”
