Hostages reveal systematic torture and starvation in Gaza captivity

In late November 2023, a report submitted to the United Nations by Israel's Health Ministry revealed the severe treatment of hostages held in Gaza by Hamas following their abduction during the October 7, 2023, attack. Over 100 Israeli and foreign nationals were interviewed, with testimonies highlighting harrowing experiences that included torture, starvation, and medical neglect. Many of the hostages, including children and teenagers, recounted experiences of being bound, beaten, and branded with heated objects, as well as the denial of basic medical care. Reports indicated that many captives endured psychological trauma and physical abuse, with women specifically detailing instances of sexual assault by captors, some occurring at gunpoint. The hostages were often kept in isolation, deprived of food and water, and subjected to severe physical violence, leading to significant health deterioration and in some cases, death. The Israeli response combined calls for international action against Hamas and an urgent need to secure the remaining hostages' release. The testimonies emphasize the brutality faced by these individuals, sparking a humanitarian crisis where health conditions deteriorated due to neglect and mistreatment. Several hostages required urgent medical attention upon their release, further emphasizing the consequences of their captivity. Israeli officials described the report as a wake-up call for the international community to exert pressure on Hamas to release all remaining hostages and to take action against such human rights abuses. This report also sheds light on the broader context of the ongoing conflict, which has seen significant casualties on both sides. Since the onset of hostilities, involving a deadly attack and subsequent military campaigns, the humanitarian situation in Gaza has become dire, leading to widespread displacement and loss of life among the civilian population. Israeli authorities continue to investigate allegations of abuse toward Palestinian detainees during the conflict while also receiving reports of severe injuries and health issues from released hostages. The compilation of these testimonies is part of an effort to document and address the atrocities committed under captivity, with hopes of mobilizing international human rights interventions against occurrences of torture and inhumane treatment, ensuring accountability and support for the surviving victims.