Eli Sharabi, an Israeli hostage held by Hamas for 491 days, spoke at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Thursday. He described his suffering and expressed his anger.

A Harrowing Ordeal

Sharabi revealed that when Hamas released him on February 8, he weighed only 44 kg. Shockingly, this was less than the weight of his youngest daughter, who was killed along with his wife and older daughter. Hamas had launched a deadly attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, including Sharabi.

During his captivity, he endured extreme hardship. "I have come back from hell," he stated. "I was kept underground, starved, beaten, and chained like an animal. For 491 days, I begged for food, begged to use the bathroom—begging became my existence."

Demanding Answers

Sharabi did not hold back his frustration. He questioned the international community, asking, "Where was the United Nations? Where was the Red Cross? Where was the world?"

Furthermore, he challenged the UNSC to take immediate action. "If you stand for humanity, prove it," he urged. He demanded the rescue of the 59 remaining hostages in Gaza, many of whom are believed to be dead.

Recalling October 7

Although Sharabi avoided direct criticism of Israel’s actions, he recalled the terrifying events of October 7. That morning, militants stormed Kibbutz Be’eri, where he lived. Trying to reassure his wife, he told her, "The army will come, they always come." However, the soldiers never arrived.

Additionally, he spoke on behalf of fellow hostages, including 24-year-old Alon Ohel, whom he left behind in the tunnels. He also mentioned his older brother, Yossi, who was killed in Gaza. "Bring them all home. Now!" he pleaded.

Global Reactions

Sharabi’s testimony drew strong responses from world leaders:

• Britain’s deputy ambassador, James Kariuki, called Sharabi’s suffering "beyond imagination" and insisted that "Hamas must be held accountable." However, he also condemned Israel’s defense minister for threatening the "total destruction" of Gaza. The UK, therefore, urged more humanitarian aid for Gaza, an investigation into alleged human rights violations, and a renewed ceasefire.

• France’s UN ambassador, Jérôme Bonnafont, expressed deep condolences but also criticized Israel’s continued airstrikes. He argued that bombing Gaza would not help secure the release of hostages. Consequently, he called for an end to Israel’s blockade of Gaza.

• Russia’s deputy UN ambassador, Dmitry Polyansky, expressed sympathy for Sharabi’s ordeal. "Our hearts were filled with sorrow as we listened to the tragic story of Mr. Eli Sharabi," he said. "Such brutality can have no justification."

Rising Death Toll in Gaza

Meanwhile, the situation in Gaza continues to worsen.

Israeli airstrikes killed at least 85 Palestinians overnight, bringing the total death toll to nearly 600 since Israel resumed its military operations. Previously, a ceasefire had briefly paused the fighting and allowed some hostage releases.

In response, Hamas fired three rockets at Israel. However, no casualties were reported. According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israeli airstrikes have killed 592 people in just three days.

Israel's Military Actions

At the same time, Israel has tightened its blockade on northern Gaza, including Gaza City. Although civilians can move south on foot via the coastal road, they are no longer allowed to re-enter northern Gaza. Many Palestinians had returned to their homes during the ceasefire, hoping to rebuild their lives.

Moreover, Israeli ground forces launched fresh offensives near Beit Lahiya in the north and Rafah in the south. The military also retook part of the Netzarim corridor, effectively splitting Gaza into two.

As the conflict escalates, the humanitarian crisis deepens. Meanwhile, the fate of the remaining hostages remains uncertain.