Evyatar David’s family speaks out against Hamas after a disturbing video shows him in poor condition, urging the global community for intervention while escalating tensions continue in Gaza.
Family of Israeli Hostage Accuses Hamas of Starvation Tactics
Family of Israeli Hostage Accuses Hamas of Starvation Tactics
The family of Evyatar David, an Israeli hostage held by Hamas, claims the group is deliberately starving him as a propaganda tool.
The family of Israeli hostage Evyatar David, who has been in Hamas's custody since October 7, 2023, has publicly condemned the militant group for its apparent use of starvation as a propaganda tool. A video recently released by Hamas features the 24-year-old in a frail state, stating, “I haven't eaten for days... I barely got drinking water,” while he appears to be digging his own grave in a narrow concrete tunnel. The family describes their loved one as a “living skeleton,” and they implore the Israeli government and international community to take immediate action to secure his release.
Evyatar, captured during a music festival in southern Israel, is among 49 hostages believed to be held by Hamas, following its assault on Israel nearly two years ago that resulted in numerous kidnappings. While Hamas defends its treatment of hostages, Israeli authorities differentiate claiming that there is no famine under their watch. Despite ongoing allegations from various humanitarian organizations that Israel is weaponizing food against Gaza, Israel contends that it is not imposing restrictions on aid deliveries.
In parallel, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) assert ongoing efforts to improve humanitarian conditions in Gaza, announcing the air-dropping of 90 aid packages. However, reports from the Hamas-run health ministry indicate that malnutrition has claimed the lives of at least 169 individuals, including 93 children, amidst escalating violence and military operations in the region.
As fighting continues, Israel maintains its military actions, which it initiated after the deadly Hamas-led attack that claimed around 1,200 lives. In contrast, Hamas health authorities estimate over 60,430 fatalities resulting from the Israeli military campaign. Access for international journalists remains limited, complicating the verification of emerging claims and humanitarian situations in Gaza amid a persistent blockade and dire conditions.
