A video depicting an emaciated Israeli hostage has surfaced, prompting families of hostages to intensify calls for action from the United States. The nearly five-minute clip features 24-year-old Evyatar David, who was abducted by Hamas during an attack on October 7, 2023, while attending the Nova music festival in southern Israel. David’s family authorized the video’s release on Saturday, revealing the harrowing conditions he faces in captivity.
In the video, David appears gaunt and weak, captured in a narrow underground tunnel where he describes being forced to dig what he refers to as his “own grave.” He recounts the dire circumstances of his captivity, stating that he has often been given only minimal sustenance, including beans and lentils, or no food at all for extended periods. “I have been completely abandoned by you, my prime minister,” he addresses Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressing despair over his situation.
The family has accused Hamas of using David as a tool for propaganda, stating, “Hamas is using our son as a live experiment in a vile hunger campaign.” They called for urgent action to secure the release of all hostages, as the emotional toll on families continues to mount.
Families Rally for Action in Tel Aviv
On the same day as the video’s release, families of those held captive gathered in Tel Aviv to raise awareness of their loved ones’ plight. Behind a barbed wire installation, relatives expressed their anguish and desperation. Einav Zangauker, a mother whose son holds dual US and Israeli citizenship, stated, “Our children are experiencing a Holocaust. Never again is happening right now. They will not survive much longer.” Zangauker urged Netanyahu to negotiate a comprehensive deal to end the conflict and secure the return of the hostages.
The gathering coincided with a visit by Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy for hostage affairs, who met with the families to offer support. Witkoff had earlier visited a food distribution site in Gaza, underscoring the dual focus on humanitarian aid and hostage recovery. During his meeting with the families, he assured them that the US is committed to bringing their loved ones home and holding Hamas accountable for their actions. “We will get your children home and hold Hamas responsible for any bad acts on their part,” Witkoff stated.
International Attention on Hostage Situation
With at least 20 hostages believed to be alive in Gaza, the situation has drawn international scrutiny. Witkoff emphasized the urgency of the matter, noting that the US has a plan to end the war and facilitate the return of hostages. “We know who is alive, and someone will be to blame if they don’t come out alive,” he warned, reinforcing the US government’s commitment to the issue.
The emotional weight of the hostages’ situation resonates deeply with families and the broader community, as they await news of their loved ones. The release of David’s video has reignited discussions around the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the need for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
As families continue to advocate for their loved ones, they remain hopeful that increased attention and pressure may lead to a breakthrough in negotiations, ultimately bringing the hostages home.
