Hamas freed three Israeli hostages on Saturday. Their weak condition caused anger worldwide. Human rights groups and Israeli officials condemned their treatment. Many fear for the health of those still held in Gaza.
Hostages Forced Into Public Display
The freed men—Eli Sharabi, Ohad Ben Ami, and Or Levy—looked sick and thin. Hamas militants made them stand before a crowd. They were forced to speak on stage. Many called it a cruel show.
Dr. Yael Frenkel Nir, a top doctor in Israel, warned of lasting health damage. She said the men showed signs of severe neglect. Israeli leaders compared their look to Holocaust survivors.
The Red Cross urged all sides to release hostages with care and respect. They said people must be treated with dignity.
Netanyahu Vows to Free Hostages and Fight Hamas
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Hamas “monsters.” He promised to destroy the group. He also vowed to bring home all 73 remaining hostages.
Israel’s UN Ambassador Danny Danon urged the UN to speak out. He called on Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to condemn Hamas.
Public anger is growing. Many in Tel Aviv protested. They want faster action to free the hostages.
Eli Sharabi learned sad news after his release. His wife and daughters died in the October 7 attack. The three freed men are now in hospitals with their families.
