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Israel has formally submitted a report to the United Nations detailing the harrowing abuse endured by former hostages held by Hamas during their captivity.
The report, compiled by Israel’s Health Ministry, provides firsthand testimonies from individuals released in a deal brokered in November 2023.
According to Israeli media outlet N12, the report serves as a stark reminder to the international community of the severe conditions that hostages suffered and the continuing plight of those still in captivity.
Health Minister Uriel Busso, who oversaw the preparation of the report, emphasized its significance in drawing attention to the horrific treatment hostages faced.
“These testimonies serve as a wake-up call to the international community. The world needs to see the reality of what hostages endured – and what those still in captivity continue to face,” Busso stated.
The report outlines disturbing accounts of abuse, including the deliberate separation of family members who were all taken hostage on October 7, 2023.
Among the numerous atrocities described, women were reportedly forced into slavery by their captors, while children were made to watch distressing videos of the October 7 massacre.
In addition, hostages were subjected to surgeries performed without anesthesia or proper medical care, some were coerced into soiling themselves, and the overall conditions were described as inhumane.
As the hostages were released, Hamas reportedly increased food portions to create a false image of their well-being.
Despite this, many hostages showed significant weight loss, with children losing between 11 to 22 pounds and adults shedding around 33 pounds. These numbers highlight the dire conditions under which the hostages were held for months.
Beyond the immediate horrors of captivity, the report also sheds light on the ongoing trauma experienced by the hostages after their release.
Many survivors are struggling to reintegrate into normal life, with some rarely leaving their homes and others grappling with the fear of being alone at night.
Physical pain remains a lasting issue for many, and children who were freed are reportedly facing difficulties with food, either hoarding it or consuming less than before.
This report has raised awareness about the long-term impact of Hamas’s actions on its victims. While the international community is called to act, the emotional and physical scars left on the hostages remain a testament to the brutality they endured.
The testimonies serve not only to highlight the abuse but also to advocate for ongoing support for the survivors, as they continue their painful journey toward healing.