August 5, 2025

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urgently reached out to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) for assistance in providing better conditions for hostages taken by Hamas in Gaza. This appeal comes after disturbing videos surfaced showing two of the hostages appearing severely malnourished. Videos of Rom Braslavski and Evyatar David, captured during the violent events of October 7, 2023, have ignited a wave of public outrage within Israel, calling for an immediate truce and negotiations for their release. Netanyahu's office confirmed that he communicated with ICRC coordinator Julien Lerisson, emphasizing the need to ensure food and medical treatment for the captives. The ICRC expressed its horror at the videos and has reiterated its demand for access to the hostages. In a response from Hamas's armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades stated they would allow ICRC access only if humanitarian corridors were established across Gaza to facilitate food and aid delivery. It claimed it does not deliberately starve the hostages but would not grant them special food privileges amid what they describe as an ongoing siege. The distressing images of the hostages, especially David who appeared to be digging what was portrayed as his own grave, have further fueled public calls in Israel for negotiations to secure their release and a potential truce. Netanyahu has expressed deep shock over the situations presented in the videos and reassured the families of the hostages that efforts are ongoing to bring them home. As tensions rise, tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Tel Aviv to demand that the government prioritize the release of hostages. In a statement on Sunday, Israel's UN ambassador indicated that the United Nations Security Council will hold an emergency session to address the critical situation of the hostages. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the videos as appalling and called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages, as well as criticizing Hamas's presence and actions in Gaza. Complicating the situation, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens as UN officials warn of impending famine and extreme conditions caused by restrictions on aid entering the region. Israel has been heavily limiting the flow of supplies, with reports indicating that much of what is allowed in can often be diverted or looted. Gaza's civil defense agency reported casualties from Israeli fire on civilians, further inflaming an already tense situation as desperate locals attempt to secure minimal food rations from aid sites. Witnesses like 31-year-old Jabr al-Shaer reported that many of those waiting for aid posed no threat when soldiers opened fire. The ongoing conflict, initiated by Hamas's attack in 2023, has escalated to significant casualty figures on both sides. Israeli military sources claim that among the 49 hostages still held in Gaza, many are believed to have perished. Israel's military campaign has resulted in over 60,000 deaths in Gaza, predominantly among civilians, according to figures released by health authorities in the region. Though media access is restricted, the situation remains dire, with various claims of casualties that cannot be independently verified. The international community continues to press for solutions, advocating for humanitarian aid to reach those suffering and for the safe return of hostages caught amid the ongoing violence.

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Tags: Netanyahu, Gaza, Hostages, Hamas, Red cross, Un, Humanitarian aid,