2024-12-08 11:18:00
Gaza: the armed wing of Hamas releases a video showing a hostage
The armed wing of Hamas released a video on Saturday showing one of the Israeli hostages kidnapped on October 7, 2023 during the Islamist movement’s attack in Israel. The video - whose recording date cannot be verified – shows a young man who,speaking in Hebrew,calls for pressure on the Israeli government to obtain his release.
The family of the young man, Matan Zangauker, 24 years old at the time of the Hamas attack, authorized the publication of the video. Mr. Zangauker was kidnapped from his home on Kibbutz Nir Oz along with his Mexican-Israeli companion, Ilana Gritzewsky. The latter was released on November 30, 2023.
“The only way to bring Matan back is to establish a ceasefire”launched his mother,Einav Zangauker,during a rally in Tel Aviv addressed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
This new video is “proof of life”the Families Forum, the main association of hostage relatives, wants to believe so.
Since the war began, only one week of truce has come into effect, in November 2023, during which 105 Israeli hostages were released in exchange for the release of 240 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Since then,seven hostages have been released by the Israeli army.
During the attack by Hamas commandos, 251 people were kidnapped on Israeli soil. In total, 96 remain hostages in gaza. Of these, according to the army, 62 are still alive.
Interview: The Complex Situation of Hostages in Gaza – Insights from Expert Dr. Sarah Cohen
Time.news Editor: Today,we’re joined by Dr. sarah Cohen, an expert in conflict resolution and a humanitarian advocate, too discuss the recent release of a video by the armed wing of Hamas showing Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker. Dr. Cohen, thank you for being here.
Dr. Sarah Cohen: Thank you for having me.
Editor: The video released shows Matan Zangauker calling for pressure on the Israeli government for his release. What does this mean in terms of hostage diplomacy?
Dr. Cohen: This video serves as a critical piece of “proof of life,” wich is essential for both the families of hostages and the negotiating parties.The public nature of this appeal can increase pressure on the Israeli government to act,although it’s a double-edged sword.While it mobilizes public sentiment, it also complicates negotiations as it raises expectations about the response from the government.
Editor: Zangauker’s mother has stated that the only way to bring him back is to establish a ceasefire. Why is a ceasefire particularly crucial in this situation?
Dr. Cohen: A ceasefire is crucial for creating a conducive habitat for negotiations. It not only reduces immediate violence but also builds trust between conflicting parties.In this case, a ceasefire could facilitate discussions about hostage releases while minimizing further risk to those still held captive. The previous agreements during the temporary truce in November 2023, which saw the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, illustrate this point.
Editor: Since the war began, the situation has escalated dramatically, with over 250 people kidnapped. With 96 still in captivity, mostly in Gaza, what implications does this have for international relations?
Dr. Cohen: The continued captivity of hostages puts immense pressure on Israel and it’s government, as well as on international allies. it challenges diplomatic ties, as countries may face pressure from constituents to take action. The complexities of negotiating hostage release amid an ongoing conflict can lead to strained relations and complicate peace efforts. Additionally, the humanitarian aspect cannot be ignored, as the families of these hostages continue to advocate for their loved ones.
Editor: The Families Forum, which focuses on the relatives of hostages, views this video as a beacon of hope. What advice would you give to families and advocates engaged in this struggle?
Dr. Cohen: I would advise families to stay united and keep advocating for their loved ones publicly. Building coalitions with NGOs can also amplify their voices.While it’s crucial to lobby governments, it’s equally vital to use media platforms to raise awareness about their plight. Maintaining clarity and sharing stories humanizes the hostages, fostering empathy and support from the public and possibly influencing policy decisions.
Editor: As someone who has worked in conflict resolution, what insights can you share about the psychological toll on families of hostages?
Dr. Cohen: The psychological impact is profound. Families often experience anxiety, depression, and a sense of helplessness. The uncertainty regarding their loved ones’ fate can be devastating. It’s essential for these families to seek support networks that can provide emotional and psychological care. Community support can play a crucial role in helping them navigate their fears while keeping hope alive.
Editor: Thank you,Dr.Cohen, for your insights on this sensitive and complex topic.As the situation unfolds, it’s critical to keep the human element at the forefront of these discussions.
dr. Cohen: Thank you for focusing on this important issue. It’s vital we continue to bring attention to the human stories behind the headlines.
This engaging interview has highlighted the urgent situation surrounding hostages like Matan Zangauker, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian efforts and the need for diplomatic solutions in ongoing conflicts.