JERUSALEM (VINnews) – Rom Braslavski said he has started having a tattoo removed, calling the decision a personal act rooted in his Jewish faith following his release from Hamas captivity in Gaza.

In a social media post, Braslavski said he had reflected on the decision for about six months before beginning laser removal treatments. He wrote that he viewed the process as a way to strengthen his commitment to Judaism and thanked Hashem for his freedom, his faith, and surviving captivity.

Braslavski also recounted that while he was being held hostage, one of his captors made him cover the tattoo with a jacket during the summer because it identified him as Jewish.

He said he is willing to endure the discomfort of laser treatments because he believes the decision reflects his dedication to serving Hashem.

Jewish law prohibits receiving tattoos, but people who already have them are generally not obligated to remove them.

Braslavski ended his message by expressing gratitude despite the hardships he endured in captivity, saying his experiences deepened his faith. He concluded by reciting the Shehecheyanu blessing, which thanks Hashem for sustaining life and allowing a person to reach a significant moment.

“וּכְתֹבֶת קַעֲקַע לֹא תִתְּנוּ בָּכֶם”

אבא תודה על הזכות להסיר את הקעקוע שעל גופי . אבא תודה על הזכות להיות חופשי ומאושר . אבא תודה על הזכות להיות יהודי . אבא תודה על הזכות • לא • להיות 🎗️ חטוף בעזה. 🎗️

תודה על הזכות לתקן .
לא אשכח בימים השחורים שלי בעזה, בשיא החום של חודש… pic.twitter.com/TOKp7hY3vK

— Rom Braslavski (@RomBraslavski) July 15, 2026