Newly released hostages in Gaza made apparent calls for Israel to end the war while standing alongside Hamas gunmen, a move that has sparked controversy and concern.
According to Sky News Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall, the hostages, looking gaunt and in poor health, were paraded and seemingly asked to speak into a microphone before being handed over to the Red Cross.
"I'm told they were saying that the war should stop, the Israeli government should agree to the second and third stages of the ceasefire deal," Bunkall reported. "And they apparently spoke about Hamas and thanked them for saving them from the attacks by Israel."
The event marks a departure from previous hostage releases, during which hostages were not interviewed or asked to speak publicly. Given the circumstances, with Hamas gunmen surrounding them, any statements made by the hostages must be viewed with caution. The absence of audio from the stage further complicates the interpretation of their words.
This development occurs amid a fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which includes the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The current deal aims to achieve a sustained period of calm in Gaza, but its future remains uncertain. The demands made by the hostages-if accurately reported-align with Hamas's long-standing position that Israel must end its military operations and fully implement the terms of the ceasefire agreement.
The images of the hostages, appearing frail and seemingly under duress, have drawn strong reactions. Critics argue that Hamas is exploiting the hostages for propaganda purposes, attempting to undermine Israeli public support for the war. Others express concern for the hostages' well-being and the potential psychological impact of being forced to make such statements.
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