Red Cross denied access to hostages in Gaza for over 590 days

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has been unable to visit hostages held in Gaza for more than 590 days, despite expressing readiness to provide medical assistance and humanitarian support since the beginning of their captivity. Jacob Kurtzer, the Communications Coordinator for the ICRC, affirmed in a recent interview that the organization has been prepared to extend help from day one but has been denied access to the hostages. He emphasized that the ICRC's mission is to conduct humanitarian work, which includes providing medicine and care for the hostages. Additionally, some criticisms have arisen regarding the ICRC's perceived inaction and its involvement in Hamas-led hostage release ceremonies, which some question regarding their appropriateness. Kurtzer maintained that such operations should be conducted with dignity and in private, underlining the ICRC's commitment to humanitarian values. Amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the ICRC also continues to face challenges in providing needed aid amid calls for increased humanitarian access and support. Recently, Israel has changed its approach towards allowing some humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, yet critics of this action argue that the quantities remain far from adequate. Kurtzer cited the temporary ceasefire as a source of hope for affected families but urged all parties involved to establish a more sustainable solution to the humanitarian crisis enveloping the region. The ICRC's role extends beyond just hostage situations; it also includes providing assistance to Gazans themselves who are in dire need of support amidst the conflict.