Israeli hostages face severe health risks and possible death blow as winter approaches: Report

A report from the Health Team of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum reveals an urgent humanitarian crisis facing the 101 hostages held captive since the October 7 Hamas attack. After over 400 days in captivity, these individuals endure worsening health risks under inhumane conditions in Gaza, and with winter approaching, they face heightened threats of death and severe illness.

Main Points of the Report:
• Entering winter, hostages are critically weakened by malnutrition, with some losing up to 50% of their body weight, resulting in dangerously low muscle and body fat.
• Hostages are highly vulnerable to hypothermia, frostbite, and respiratory infections, with weakened immune systems increasing their susceptibility to winter illnesses.
• A lack of essential nutrients raises the risk of cardiovascular issues, including dangerous heart disturbances.
• Hostages suffer severe psychological trauma from isolation, violence, and lack of family contact, driving many to despair and suicidal thoughts.
• Families endure “ambiguous loss,” facing chronic stress, anxiety, and declining health as they wait in painful uncertainty.
• Deprived of ICRC visits and medical aid, hostages face severe health risks and potential disappearance.

In a video released yesterday, hostage Sasha Troufanov describes the severe lack of food, water, and basic hygiene products, as well as skin problems that have developed due to the harsh conditions. His words underscore the serious health risks faced by the hostages and the urgent need to bring them home immediately.

The Diplomatic Team of the Families Forum has distributed the report to all foreign ministries that maintain diplomatic relations with Israel, along with an accompanying appeal stating: “We must not remain indifferent to the fate of the hostages.”