A moving l’chaim was held in Eretz Yisroel at the engagement of Yosef Alexander (Sasha) Tropanov to his kallah, Sapir Cohen, both of whom miraculously returned from captivity in Gaza. Rabbi Berel Lazar and philanthropist R’ Yitzchok Mirilashvili celebrated the occasion with them.

A moving l’chaim was held in Eretz Yisroel at the engagement of Yosef Alexander (Sasha) Tropanov to his kallah, Sapir Cohen, both of whom miraculously returned from captivity in Gaza.

The celebration was attended by the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, who has supported both families throughout this ordeal, as well as family and close friends. The local shliach in West Bnei Brak, Rabbi Yosef Tzvi Filmer, was also present

The renowned Chassidishe philanthropist, Reb Yitzchok Mirilashvili, was also present and spoke words of encouragement and gratitude for the miraculous release of Sasha and his family.

After being taken captive on Simchas Torah, Sasha endured the unimaginable hardships of being held hostage in Gaza. He was abducted on Simchas Torah, October 7, 2023, together with his mother, Yelena, and his grandmother, Irena. Sapir was also abducted. Tragically, his father, Vitaly Tropanov, was killed on that day.

After 498 days in captivity in Gaza, on 17 Shevat 5785 (February 15, 2025), Sasha was released as part of a hostage deal with Hamas.

He later described months held in Gaza terror tunnels, the hunger, injuries, and the moments of faith that kept him going. “I had almost no control over anything,” Sasha said. “Many times my life was in danger, and I felt like despairing, but each time something happened that pulled me back from the edge.” Those moments, he explained, showed him clearly that “something beyond my control was influencing me,” which strengthened his awareness of Hashem’s protection. He even learned basic Arabic in captivity.

While still in captivity, Sasha’s family demonstrated incredible faith and strength. They sponsored Shavuos packages for soldiers, for his merit and in gratitude to the Moscow Jewish community that stood by them throughout his ordeal.

Upon his release, he put on tefillin for the first time with Rabbi Lazar. Soon after, he and Sapir visited the Ohel and 770, where they offered thanks and davened for those still in captivity.

Despite being free, he continues to advocate for the remaining hostages. In Moscow, he met with Russian President Vladimir Putin, expressed gratitude for efforts on his behalf, and advocated for the immediate return of all those still in captivity.

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