Hamas Allows Red Cross Aid to Israeli Hostages in Gaza Under Conditions

Hamas has expressed willingness to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to provide food and medical aid to the estimated 20 Israeli hostages held in Gaza, but under strict conditions, including the opening of humanitarian corridors to the Gaza Strip and a halt to Israeli aerial reconnaissance during aid delivery. This statement follows harrowing videos released by Hamas showing hostages in critical malnutrition, which have deeply shocked the Israeli public and international observers. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has urged the ICRC to secure immediate access to the hostages to provide necessary medical care, amidst ongoing demands from Israel for Hamas to disarm and end hostilities. The ICRC has reiterated its call for access to assess the hostages' conditions and facilitate communication with their families, emphasizing the urgency of humane treatment and medical attention. Hamas insists that the hostages will not receive special food privileges and are subject to the same conditions affecting the Gaza civilian population under Israeli blockade. The situation remains tense, with Hamas seeking an end to the Gaza conflict on its terms, while Israel demands the disarmament and exile of Hamas militants.