The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) expressed deep concern on Friday over the condition of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, following the release of three Israeli men last week who had been in captivity for nearly 500 days.
Or Levy, Eli Sharabi and Ohad Ben Ami appeared thin and frail in a staged release event conducted by Hamas, heightening concerns about the well-being of those still held.
Hamas release of hostages in Gaza last week
"The latest release operations reinforce the urgent need for ICRC access to those held hostage," the Red Cross said in a statement on X, responding to growing criticism that the organization failed in its duties to the Israeli captives. "We remain very concerned about the conditions of the hostages."
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The ICRC also reaffirmed its commitment to securing the release of all remaining hostages and said it was working directly with Hamas, Israeli authorities and international actors to gain access to them.
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ICRC vehicles present at the site during Hamas' release of hostages from captivity in Gaza
(Photo: Hatem Khaled / Reuters)
As part of an ongoing cease-fire and hostage release deal, Israel awaited the names of three additional hostages expected to be freed by Hamas on Saturday.
Currently, 76 hostages remain in captivity since the October 7 attack. Under the first phase of the release agreement, 17 hostages are set to be freed, nine of whom are confirmed to be alive.
The humanitarian concerns surrounding the hostages continue to put pressure on international organizations and diplomatic efforts aimed at securing their release.
First published: 12:05, 02.14.25