Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called on the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to urgently intervene following the release of distressing videos by Hamas showing hostages held in Gaza. Describing the footage as a source of “profound shock,” Netanyahu emphasized the psychological toll the videos have had on the Israeli public and the families of those still in captivity.
The videos, which surfaced on social media over the weekend, allegedly depict Israeli hostages in poor health and under duress, sparking renewed calls for international action to secure their release. Netanyahu urged the Red Cross to demand immediate access to the captives and to increase pressure on Hamas to adhere to international humanitarian laws.
“This is a moral test for the international community,” the Israeli leader stated. “The Red Cross must not stand idly by while innocent civilians are held in inhumane conditions.”
Israel has been engaged in ongoing negotiations, with mediators including Egypt and Qatar, to secure the release of the hostages, many of whom were abducted during the October 7 attacks. The new footage has intensified public outrage and reignited protests demanding swifter action from the Israeli government.
The ICRC has not yet confirmed whether it has received the latest appeal from Netanyahu or if it has gained any recent access to the hostages in Gaza.