The plight of hundreds of Palestinian Hamas and Israeli hostages has come to light due to the emergence of several first-hand testimonies. The testimonies from the former captives have since been described as ‘shocking’, as they tell harrowing stories of physical and mental torture along with severe psychological trauma.
The former hostages have spoken on the inhumane conditions they faced in both Israeli and Hamas detainment camps with deplorable living standards due to lack of sources of warmth, poor sanitation, inadequate food, and physical restraint. The accounts included being deprived from their basic human rights such as communication, access to healthcare, and even a judicial process.
The testimonies showed that in both situations, the hostages were subjected to physical trauma. This includes unnecessary beatings, public humiliation, and permanent damage to the body. Restrictions on clothing and hygiene along with forced labour have also been reported from many former hostages.
When asked to comment, Hannah Miller, a former prisoner in an Israeli jail said that the conditions were “inhumane and unbearable” and that “no one should be subjected to such torture.”
The testimonies have showcased the unspoken reality and the struggles faced by hundreds of individuals who have been held in illegal detention on both sides. It is hoped that this awareness can eventually lead to humanitarian relief for the victims of the incurrences and the ending of these inhumane practices.
Many organizations have spoken up about the testimonies, stressing the significance of promptly ending this inhumane behaviour towards the individuals in Israeli and Hamas confinement.
The testimonies of these hostages have been described as ‘horrifying’ and has sparked an outcry from international communities all over the world. To assure the protection, justice, and relief that these former hostages rightfully deserve, immediate international action is called for. Despite the dispute between the two parties, it is essential to help end the plight that these hostages have been subjected to for too long.