JERUSALEM,— A new report from Israel’s Health Ministry, set to be presented to the United Nations this week, outlines the horrific conditions faced by hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.
The detailed findings reveal disturbing accounts of torture, including sexual assault, psychological abuse, starvation, physical beatings, and severe medical neglect.
The report, compiled from interviews with medical and welfare teams who treated more than 100 hostages, sheds light on the brutal treatment endured by both Israeli and foreign nationals, most of whom were freed in a temporary ceasefire with Hamas in late November 2023.
In addition, eight hostages were rescued during a military operation by Israel. The victims include over 30 children and teenagers, some of whom were found to have been bound, beaten, or branded with hot objects.
Among the accounts of abuse, women reported being sexually assaulted by their captors, often under the threat of firearms. Male hostages were subjected to physical violence, forced starvation, and cruel forms of confinement.
Many were held in isolation, denied bathroom access, and deprived of medical treatment for injuries and illnesses. The Israeli Health Ministry’s report does not identify the victims by name, as it aims to protect their privacy. However, some of the details align with testimonies given by hostages and staff in interviews with international media outlets and a recent United Nations report.
Hamas has repeatedly rejected claims of abuse or mistreatment of the 251 hostages taken during its October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.
According to Israeli authorities, about half of the hostages still held in Gaza are believed to be alive. However, efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and secure the hostages’ release have so far yielded no significant breakthroughs, despite growing momentum in recent weeks.
The October Islamic State-style attack by Hamas killed approximately 1,200 people, the majority of whom were civilians, according to Israeli officials. In response, Israel launched an extensive military campaign against Hamas.
The ongoing conflict has also led to the displacement of nearly all of Gaza’s population and the widespread destruction of its infrastructure.
In parallel, Israeli authorities are investigating allegations of abuse involving Palestinian detainees arrested during the conflict, adding further tension to an already volatile situation.
Islamist Salafi groups are known to engage in torture and sexual abuse of hostages, actions they justify through their interpretation of Islamic teachings.
(With files from Reuters)
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