Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urgently appealed to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to assist hostages held in Gaza, following the release of distressing videos showing two captives in visibly weakened conditions. The development comes amid escalating tensions and renewed calls for a ceasefire.
Diplomatic Appeals and Conditions
Netanyahu's office confirmed he contacted ICRC regional coordinator Julien Lerisson on Sunday, urging immediate medical intervention and food supplies for hostages. The ICRC expressed alarm over the footage, reiterating demands for access to detainees. Hamas's armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, responded by offering conditional access, demanding open humanitarian corridors across Gaza in exchange.
Public Pressure Mounts
Recent videos released by Hamas and Islamic Jihad show hostages Rom Braslavski and Evyatar David exhibiting signs of malnutrition, intensifying domestic pressure on Israel's government. Tens of thousands rallied in Tel Aviv demanding swift action to secure captives' release, underscoring growing public frustration over stalled negotiations.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
The Al-Qassam Brigades denied intentionally starving hostages but emphasized they would not receive preferential treatment amid Gaza's broader food shortages. The standoff highlights the complex interplay between military strategy and humanitarian concerns in the ongoing conflict, now entering its eleventh month.
Cover: Tel Aviv protest demanding hostage release, August 2, 2025. /VCG
