Disturbing Conditions of Israeli Hostages and Palestinian Detainees Highlighted by UN
The distressing images of emaciated Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees released as part of the initial phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement have raised significant concerns, UN spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan stated in a recent statement.
He emphasized that photographs of Israeli hostages freed over the weekend indicate clear signs of mistreatment and malnutrition, underscoring the harsh conditions they endured in Gaza.
“We are also deeply troubled by the public display of hostages released by Hamas, as well as statements seemingly made under duress during their release,” Al-Kheetan added.
Urgent Calls for the Release of All Hostages and Detainees
At the same time, testimonies from Palestinians released from Israeli detention reveal similarly severe conditions, which the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has described as deeply concerning.
“Both Israel and Hamas must ensure that all individuals held in their custody are treated humanely and are not subjected to any form of torture or abuse,” Al-Kheetan urged.
He reiterated that under international law, torture and other forms of mistreatment of protected persons are considered war crimes, and those responsible must be held accountable accordingly.
“We reaffirm that the taking of hostages constitutes a war crime,” he stressed.
“Hamas must immediately and unconditionally release all hostages. Likewise, Israel must immediately and unconditionally release all individuals who have been arbitrarily detained.”
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