Investigation reveals deaths of dozens of hostages
The New York Times has published an investigation confirming the deaths of 41 Israeli hostages kidnapped by Hamas during the attack on 7 October 2023.
The journalists’ conclusions are based on data from the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), forensic examinations, and testimonies from high-ranking officials and relatives of the victims.
Among the dead:
▪️ Some were killed directly by Hamas militants.
▪️ Others were killed in IDF attacks in Gaza.
▪️ Some circumstances of the death remain unknown.
Debate in Israel: War or Negotiation?
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly stated that only military pressure will force Hamas to release the hostages.
At the same time, his opponents insist that prolonging the war increases the risk of hostage deaths both at the hands of terrorists and as a result of Israeli operations.
The NYT notes that this debate has become particularly acute in recent days as Israel prepares for a possible resumption of hostilities after the ceasefire.
What do you know about those released and killed?
Returned home:
▪️ More than 130 hostages were released as part of the exchange deals.
▪️ In exchange for them, Israel released Palestinian prisoners.
The dead:
▪️ The IDF returned the bodies of more than 40 Israelis, some of whom had been taken to Gaza already dead.
▪️ Hamas handed over eight more bodies in the latest truce.
The Israeli Defence Forces refused to comment on the circumstances of the hostages’ deaths, but stressed that they had taken measures to protect them during the operations.
The situation around the Israeli hostages remains one of the most sensitive topics in society and may affect further military and political decisions.
