Hamas has announced it is willing to allow humanitarian aid access to Israeli hostages held in Gaza—on the condition that Israel halts its airstrikes and opens permanent humanitarian corridors. The statement follows the release of a harrowing video of a visibly emaciated hostage, which sparked global condemnation.

The militant group said it would work with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to facilitate aid, but only if Israel agrees to a permanent cessation of airstrikes during aid distribution and ensures unobstructed access for humanitarian convoys.

Global Reaction to Hostage Video

The latest video released by Hamas shows Israeli hostage Evyatar David in emaciated condition, digging what he claims is his own grave. The footage triggered outrage from Western governments, including France, Germany, the UK, and the U.S., prompting Israel’s Foreign Ministry to request a special UN Security Council session.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he asked the ICRC to provide urgent aid to the hostages. The Hostages Families Forum issued a statement condemning Hamas, demanding the immediate release of hostages, and holding the group accountable for their deteriorating conditions.

Gaza’s Humanitarian Catastrophe Worsens

Gaza’s health ministry reported six new deaths from starvation or malnutrition over the past 24 hours, bringing the death toll from famine-related causes to at least 175, including 93 children. Despite severe shortages, some fuel shipments were allowed into Gaza on Sunday. Egypt's Al Qahera TV reported that two trucks carrying 107 tons of diesel were approved, while COGAT confirmed that four UN fuel tankers had entered the enclave.

Belgium and France began air-dropping aid, but UN agencies say aerial deliveries are insufficient and that Israel must significantly scale up land-based aid access.

Israeli Attacks Continue Amid Aid Crisis

Palestinian medics said Israeli forces killed at least 80 people on Sunday, including several civilians trying to reach aid distribution centers. Among the casualties was a member of the Palestinian Red Crescent Society, killed during an Israeli strike on the organization’s Khan Younis headquarters.

Israel claims Hamas bears responsibility for the humanitarian crisis, but under mounting international pressure, it has taken limited steps to ease restrictions—such as authorizing air drops and approving "protected" aid routes.

The war, which began on October 7, 2023, after a Hamas cross-border attack that killed over 1,200 Israelis and resulted in 251 hostages, has since claimed over 60,000 Palestinian lives, according to Gaza health officials.