The video comes amid Spain, Norway, and Ireland’s decision to recognize an independent Palestinian state, marking a significant diplomatic setback for Israel. This move highlights Israel’s increasing isolation globally, over seven months into its extensive military offensive in the Gaza Strip.
Hamas Hostage Viral Video
The three-minute video depicts the captured soldiers seated on the ground, some with visible injuries and their hands tied. The footage, sourced from a two-hour body camera recording by Hamas militants, was shared by the Hostage and Missing Families Forum. The forum described the footage as revealing the “violent, humiliating, and traumatising treatment” endured by the soldiers, highlighting their “eyes filled with raw terror.”
Urgent Plea from Families
Towards the end of the clip, the soldiers are seen being driven away by militants amid screams. Sasha Ariev, the sister of one of the captured soldiers, voiced a plea: “It’s time to act, otherwise the blood of my sister and other hostages will be on the hands” of Israeli authorities. She stressed the urgency of bringing the hostages back “quickly and alive.”
Hamas’s Response
Hamas responded by claiming the video footage was manipulated, intended to support “false allegations” and tarnish the image of the resistance. They asserted that while some soldiers sustained minor injuries, there was “no physical aggression against any of them.”
Attack’s Aftermath
The October 7 attack led to the deaths of over 50 Israeli soldiers, including 15 women. Seven female soldiers were taken hostage, with one subsequently freed and another found deceased. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing pressure from the hostages’ families, has vowed to continue fighting Hamas to prevent such events from recurring.
Continuing Conflict
Israel’s retaliatory actions have resulted in significant casualties in Gaza, with the health ministry reporting at least 35,709 deaths, predominantly civilians. The Israeli military has reported 287 soldiers killed since the onset of the ground offensive on October 27.
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