The report, prepared by the Ministry of Health, is divided into two sections. The first section describes the neglect, abuse, torture, and humiliation suffered by the hostages who were released or rescued from captivity in Gaza, as well as the impact of these traumatic experiences on their physical and mental health. This section is based on interviews with medical teams who treated the hostages upon their return to Israel.
The second section of the report explores rehabilitation models for the returnees, drawing on data from primary care nurses, physicians, and mental health professionals who have been providing ongoing care, including through specialized clinics for returnees.
Uriel Busso, Minister of Health discussed the case saying: "The report we are submitting to the UN is a harrowing testimony to the brutal experiences suffered by the hostages in Hamas captivity—cruel violence, psychological abuse, physical torment, and acts that defy comprehension. These actions cannot be tolerated, and it is critical that the world wake up and take action. The report highlights the horrors the hostages endured and exposes the brutality of the enemy with whom Israel is engaged. The testimonies presented here should serve as a wake-up call to the international community, urging increased pressure on Hamas and its supporters to free all the hostages without delay. I call on the global community to use all available means to end this cruelty and bring the hostages home immediately. This is a moral and humanitarian imperative, and the time to act is now."
Moshe Bar-Siman-Tov, Director General of the Ministry of Health stated: "This crucial report underscores the urgent need for the immediate release of all hostages. The healthcare system mobilized swiftly at the onset of the war to treat the wounded, both physically and psychologically, and to care for those returning from captivity. This report, submitted to the UN and other international organizations this week, outlines the severe conditions faced by those who have returned from Hamas captivity and emphasizes the urgency of securing their release. We view it as both a responsibility and a privilege to provide the best possible medical care and support to those who were brutally kidnapped by Hamas militants. We remain hopeful for the return of all hostages—the living to receive treatment and rehabilitation, and the deceased for a dignified burial in Israel."
Dr. Hagar Mizrahi, Head of Medical Directorate at the Ministry of Health also commented on the report: "Since the war began, medical teams have been working tirelessly to treat and save those wounded, both physically and mentally. From the beginning, the healthcare system has been tasked with the care of those cruelly kidnapped by Hamas. We have been exposed to the horrors and appalling conditions faced by the returnees, as well as the profound suffering of those who were murdered in captivity. Not a day passes without my thoughts being with the immense hardships experienced by those who have returned and those still held in captivity. The severe physical and mental states of the returnees offer the world a glimpse into the widespread atrocities committed by Hamas. Based on the testimonies we have received, I can confidently say that the physical and mental condition of all hostages still held in Gaza is dire. Therefore, it is imperative that every effort be made to bring them back. Without the return of the hostages, families and communities will be unable to heal and return to their daily lives"
Shira Solomon Spokesperson for the Israeli Ministry of Health made the announcement of the Ministry of Healths’ plans to submit such a report to the UN regarding the horrific conditions the hostages were and potentially still are being held in Gaza under Hamas.
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