In the Gaza Strip, Hamas’s armed wing has released a video featuring two hostages, urging Israeli authorities to negotiate for the release of all remaining captives. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum identified the captives as Keith Siegel and Omri Miran, who were abducted during a Hamas attack in southern Israel on October 7.
The forum emphasized the urgency of reaching a deal before Independence Day on May 14 and called for the return of all hostages for rehabilitation and a dignified burial for those who lost their lives.
The video, which surfaced just three days after Hamas released another showing hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin alive, portrays Siegel and Miran speaking under duress. Miran, 47, described their unpleasant and challenging situation during their 202 days in Hamas captivity, urging for a swift resolution.
“I have been here in Hamas captivity for 202 days. The situation here is unpleasant, difficult and there are many bombs,” Miran is heard saying in the footage, indicating it was taken earlier this week. “It’s time to reach a deal that will get us out of here safe and healthy… Keep protesting, so that there will be a deal now.”
As Hamas evaluates Israel’s latest ceasefire proposal and reports of Egyptian mediation, the video serves as a plea for action. In the footage, Siegel, 64, emotionally addressed his family, expressing his love and hope for a prompt resolution. “We are in danger here, there are bombs, it is stressful and scary,” he said, burying his face in his arms as he cried. “I want to tell my family that I love you very much. It’s important to me that you know that I am fine.”
He also acknowledged the demonstrations in Israel advocating for their release and urged continued support from demonstrators. “I hope and believe that you will all continue,” he said, addressing the demonstrators who have been holding regular rallies calling on Netanyahu to agree a deal.
The video also featured messages in Hebrew from Hamas’s armed wing, challenging Israeli military efforts and urging action before it’s too late.
Following the video’s release, protests erupted in Tel Aviv, demanding government action and the release of hostages. Miran’s father joined the rally, appealing to Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar to make a decision to end the suffering.
The rally, attended by Siegel’s wife Aviv, showcased solidarity with the hostages and pressure on authorities to secure their release.
The October 7 attack, which Hamas is accused of planning, resulted in numerous abductions, with many still held captive in Gaza. The toll of the attack, including civilian casualties and Israeli military responses, underscores the urgency of finding a resolution to the ongoing crisis.
