Title: Hostages Released from Hamas Face Long Road to Recovery
In the aftermath of the release of hostages by Hamas, the freed individuals are now grappling with severe mental and, in some cases, physical trauma. Nick Schifrin spoke with Professor Hagai Levine, the head of the medical and resilience team for the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, to shed light on the current state of the hostages and the challenges they are facing.
According to Professor Levine, some of the released hostages have already arrived at the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, with two women having spoken to their families. Despite these initial signs of communication and mobility, the recovery process for the hostages is anticipated to be lengthy and arduous.
The ordeal for the freed individuals is compounded by the revelation that some of them have severe chronic illnesses that were likely left untreated during their captivity. Professor Levine emphasized the urgent need for the hostages to undergo comprehensive medical examinations to identify and address any underlying health issues.
Furthermore, Professor Levine expressed grave concern for over 200 innocent people who are still being held by Hamas, highlighting that they are not receiving adequate medical and psychological care. He called for the immediate release of the remaining hostages or, at the very least, for them to receive a visit from the Red Cross for medical evaluation and treatment.
As the world witnesses the release of these hostages, the focus has shifted to the challenges they will confront as they begin the healing process. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, along with medical professionals and humanitarian organizations, will undoubtedly play a crucial role in providing the necessary support for these individuals as they embark on the difficult journey toward recovery.