Families of the abducted and missing persons have presented their demands to the headquarters dedicated to their safe return. The headquarters, which already boasts over 800 families and thousands of volunteers, will be led by a negotiation team and a legal team to assist with various legal aspects.
Brigadier General Gal Hirsch, who is in charge of handling the abductees and missing persons, provided an update on the ongoing efforts to locate and rescue the victims. He outlined three main areas of focus: the intelligence-operational effort, consolidating the situation of the missing and abducted, and providing government aid to the families affected.
Hirsch expressed his gratitude for the support and offers of assistance from the Israeli society. He also mentioned having conversations with Roger Carstens, the American presidential envoy for hostage matters, and his deputy Steven Gillen, who will be visiting Israel to discuss the matter further. Hirsch highlighted the importance of the warm relationship and the American commitment to help in any way possible.
The families’ headquarters has outlined their requirements, with the first demand being the immediate release of all kidnapped hostages, including civilians and soldiers. They argue that holding these individuals goes against international law and is considered a war crime and crime against humanity.
Another demand is the establishment of a humanitarian corridor for the supply of medication and necessary equipment to those among the hostages who are chronically ill, injured, or elderly and in need of regular medical assistance. The families also insist on having all kidnapped hostages examined by a doctor.
In addition, the families seek the intervention and assistance of the leaders of neighboring countries and the entire region to secure the immediate release of the kidnapped hostages.
As the search and rescue efforts continue, the families remain hopeful that their loved ones will be safely returned. The headquarters, along with their negotiation and legal teams, will work tirelessly to ensure the families’ demands are met and justice is served for the victims of this ongoing crisis.