Journalist held by ISIS terror group details how he was crucified in the sun and beaten until he pleaded with his captors to kill him

French journalist recounts harrowing ordeal in ISIS captivity. French journalist Nicholas Henin has detailed the brutal torture he endured at the hands of ISIS after being kidnapped in Syria. Speaking in a Paris court during the trial of his captors, Henin revealed the horrific conditions he faced, including being crucified under the sun and severely beaten.

Captured in Syria

Henin was abducted in June 2013 in Raqqa while on his way to buy crisps and a bottle of water. He was held captive for nearly a year by ISIS terrorists, alongside other Western hostages, before being released in April 2014. During his captivity, he was subjected to relentless interrogations, physical abuse, and psychological torment.

Torture and Survival

Henin described being beaten while in handcuffs, with his captors striking the soles of his feet dozens of times. One of the most agonizing methods of torture he endured was a simulated crucifixion, where he was tied outside in the burning sun. He recalled the excruciating dehydration, saying, “I remember my tongue was like stone.”

The journalist also recounted a mock execution, where he challenged his captors to carry it out. To his surprise, they seemed disappointed by his reaction. Despite the immense suffering, he resolved not to give up, thinking, “I am not allowed to make my children orphans. I will not commit suicide.”

Failed Escape Attempt

Henin once managed to escape from his prison by detaching the bars of his cell window and running for three hours. However, he was recaptured after mistakenly seeking help from two jihadists, who turned him in.

The Trial of His Captors

Henin testified against Mehdi Nemmouche, a 39-year-old French jihadist convicted for carrying out a deadly attack on the Brussels Jewish Museum in May 2014. Nemmouche is believed to have been one of Henin’s jailers, going by the name Abu Omar. Four other men, including a Syrian national and two presumed dead suspects, are also on trial for their roles in holding Henin and other Western hostages captive.

The trial, which is expected to continue until March 21, sheds light on the brutalities inflicted by ISIS on Western journalists and aid workers. French prosecutors revealed that the terrorist group had kidnapped 25 Westerners in Syria, executing several of them in widely publicized killings.

Conclusion

Henin’s testimony serves as a grim reminder of the atrocities committed by ISIS. His survival and courage in recounting his ordeal provide critical evidence against those responsible. As the trial progresses, the world watches in anticipation of justice for the victims of ISIS captivity.