In a series of video testimonies aired on Saturday, Israeli hostages who were recently freed from Hamas captivity recounted both physical and mental hardships. Over 100 hostages were released during the week-long Israel-Hamas truce that concluded on December 1. Despite this temporary reprieve, hostilities resumed, with Israel continuing its military offensive against Hamas in Gaza.
Out of the approximately 240 people taken hostage by Hamas during the October 7 killing spree in Israel that triggered the Gaza war, 137 individuals remain in captivity. Some hostages were returned during the truce, while others have been declared dead in absentia by Israeli authorities. The situation remains complex and challenging as the conflict persists.