Israel’s deadly outrage at kidnap video

Israel Defence Forces spokesman Daniel Hagari called it “a criminal, terrorist video”.

He said that “it testifies to Hamas’ cruelty towards innocent, very elderly civilians who are in need of medical care”.

The video, released late on Monday by al-Qassam Brigades – Hamas’ military wing – is of three Israeli men seized in the October 7 attacks and being held in Gaza.

They were identified as Chaim Peri, 79, Yoram Metzger, 80, and Amiram Cooper, 85.

Mr Hagari added: “The world must act in order to deliver medical aid and check on the state of the hostages.

“Our heart is with all hostages and their families, all the time.”

He also addressed the captives directly, saying: “Chaim, Yoram and Amiram – I hope you hear me tonight. Know that we are doing everything, everything in order to bring you back safely.

“Some of your family members are already home. We will not rest until you too are returned.”

The footage shows Mr Peri addressing the camera and calling for their release.

International broadcasters did not air in full the material which may have been filmed under duress.

Kibbutz Nir Oz, from where the men were abducted, urged US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, who is visiting the region, to secure their release.

A spokesman said: “Time is running out. Recent events sadly illustrate that the hostages’ situation is deteriorating with each passing day, particularly for older individuals.”

On Friday, three Israeli hostages were mistakenly shot dead by IDF soldiers in Gaza City while hoding a white cloth.

About 120 out of the 240 who were captured on October 7 are still believed to be in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel ignored growing international pressure over the high civilian death toll from its war on Hamas, and continued bombing.

At least 20 people were reportedly killed in Rafah, in the south, including four children. Local officials said three residential buildings were hit. Among the dead was Palestinian journalist Adel Zourub alongside members of his family.

The UN was last night discussing a draft resolution put forward by the United Arab Emirates calling for an “urgent and sustainable cessation of hostilities to allow safe and unhindered humanitarian access in the Gaza Strip”.

Hamas says 19,667 have been killed in Gaza since Israel began its campaign in retaliation for the October 7 attacks, which claimed 1,200 lives.

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