JERUSALEM (VINnews) — Former Hamas hostage Rom Braslavski said Thursday that he has chosen to begin wearing a larger kippah, describing the decision as an expression of his Jewish identity and commitment to Torah.

In a video shared on social media, Braslavski said he would stop wearing a small skullcap and instead wear one that covers most of his head.

Braslavski acknowledged that some people may associate the larger kippah with specific religious or political groups but said the decision was personal and should not be viewed through ideological labels.

He also emphasized that he does not agree with all actions or rhetoric used by some members of the ultra-Orthodox community, including language directed at police during protests.

Braslavski said his decision stemmed from pride in being Jewish and living in Israel.

“I am a Jew in the State of Israel, and I am proud of it,” he said, adding that he chose to wear the larger kippah “for Judaism and the Torah.”