Families of Israeli prisoners released after being held by Hamas say their loved ones have endured horrific conditions, including daily starvation, mental and physical abuse, and psychological intimidation.
Over the past few months, many Israeli citizens have been kidnapped in the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel. Although some of the prisoners have been released through international mediation, the inhumane conditions they have been living in are beyond description. Family members of the released prisoners have spoken to the media about the horrific experiences of their children, which has further highlighted the humanitarian catastrophe of the ongoing crisis in Gaza.
Miserable life after kidnapping
The father of a teenager released from Hamas captivity told reporters, "My son is back, but he is not the same. There is still fear in his eyes. While in captivity, they went without food for days, spent hours and hours in a dark room."
Relatives of many released prisoners said their loved ones were subjected to physical abuse immediately after their abduction. They were denied food, not even clean water to drink. They were crammed into small rooms, leaving them physically and mentally weak.
Fear and psychological abuse
The mother of a released child said, "My daughter was repeatedly threatened that she would never be released. Various things were said to break her mentally."
Many prisoners said they were constantly shown images of Israeli attacks and were told they would never be able to return to their families.
Families' demands and global response
The international community has expressed outrage against Hamas and called for the immediate release of all civilian prisoners following the incident. However, the process is expected to be prolonged due to the deteriorating war situation in Gaza and political complications.
The families of the prisoners have called on world leaders to find a quick diplomatic solution, while the Israeli government is also continuing its campaign to free the remaining prisoners.
According to analysts, the longer the conflict between Hamas and Israel continues, the more civilians will suffer. The question now is, how quickly can the remaining prisoners be released? Will world leaders find a quick solution to this crisis, or will the war situation become more complicated?
