Released Hostages Suffer Severe Ongoing Health Challenges, Study Reveals

A new medical report by the Health Team of the Hostages and Missing Families Forum reveals severe ongoing health challenges among released hostages and their families, one year after the exchange that freed 105 people from Gaza. 

Key findings show survivors and their families face severe physical issues including malnutrition, untreated fractures, nerve damage, and long-term disabilities, widespread PTSD symptoms, including nightmares, hypervigilance, and emotional detachment, with children showing developmental regression. 

Other issues include accelerated aging among elderly survivors, who require increased medical and psychological care, and major challenges returning to work and education, with public attention often intensifying feelings of alienation.  

Prof. Hagai Levine, head of the Health Team, said, “The difficulties faced by survivors of captivity and their families over the past year highlight the critical need for continuous and comprehensive support.” 

“Addressing gaps in rehabilitation, ensuring long-term support for families, and establishing systematic monitoring mechanisms are all vital. But there can be no full recovery without the return of all hostages!” (INN/ VFI News)

“Dear God, we come to You with a burdened heart and sadness for all the people who have been suffering during the war, and especially the hostages. We pray that You cause everyone to turn to You so that You can alleviate their pain, heal them, and take their worries away. Please, don’t let Your hand leave the hostages and their families. In Yeshua’s name we pray, amen.”