The ICRC reiterates its deep concern for the lives and well-being of the hostages in Gaza

2024-02-14 15:00:00

Hostage taking is strictly prohibited under international humanitarian law. From day one, the ICRC has called, both publicly and privately, for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages.

It has also requested from the beginning and repeatedly since then that it be allowed to visit the people taken hostage, verify the conditions in which they are found, provide them with medical assistance and facilitate communication with their families.

Thanks to political agreements, the release of more than 100 hostages has been achieved, in relation to which the ICRC has played its role as a neutral intermediary, trusted by both sides to transfer these people home.

The ICRC will continue to demand the immediate and unconditional release of the hostages, but also recognizes that this is unlikely to be achieved without a political agreement. These agreements are often the only way to resolve such persistent cycles of violence. The ICRC will welcome any agreement that allows the hostages to be reunited with their loved ones and that brings relief and assistance to all those affected by the armed conflict. The organization is available to act as a neutral intermediary in the execution of the humanitarian aspects of such an agreement.

About the ICRC
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) is a neutral, impartial and independent organization with an exclusively humanitarian mission established in the Geneva Conventions of 1949. It helps people affected by armed conflicts and other situations of violence around the world, doing everything possible to protect their lives and dignity, and to alleviate their suffering, often together with their Red Cross and Red Crescent partners.

Media Contacts:
Jessica Moussan, ICRC Dubai, Tel: [phone], or [e-mail].