The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has been unable to provide medical support to hostages in Gaza for over 590 days. Jacob Kurtzer, a communications coordinator with the organization, mentioned that they are fully prepared to offer medical assistance from the very beginning. “It’s no secret that we haven’t been able to visit hostages or perform our required humanitarian tasks, including delivering medicines,” he stated. Kurtzer emphasized that this lack of access is not due to a lack of effort, as their team and other delegations are actively trying to find ways to facilitate access.
Since its founding more than 160 years ago, the ICRC has maintained a neutral stance focused on delivering aid and healthcare. However, since the onset of the conflict in Gaza, the organization has not pushed for hostage visits and has faced criticism regarding its volunteers involved in the Hamas-led hostage release ceremonies. Kurtzer pointed out that ICRC workers in Gaza have limited control over the conditions and protocols governing these release operations. Nevertheless, he reiterated that these operations should be conducted with dignity and should be personal.
“We have expressed concerns directly through our bilateral and confidential discussions,” Kurtzer added. Despite the challenges, he assured that the ICRC remains committed to its mission. The organization is ready to jump at any chance to reach hostages and provide the necessary help. However, to date, they haven’t received the chance from Hamas.
Kurtzer also touched on the ICRC’s stance regarding Israel’s access to Palestinian detainees. While discussing the challenges of visiting hostages taken during the October 7 attacks, he mentioned that the ICRC would like the opportunity to visit Palestinians in Israeli custody as well. He made a clear distinction between hostages and detainees, as laid out in International Humanitarian Law. Hostages are those taken by force and held under threats, whereas detainees are in custody under different circumstances. Kurtzer stressed that ICRC should be notified regarding Palestinians detained in Israel to fulfill its responsibilities.
Moreover, beyond dealing with hostages, the ICRC is focused on providing humanitarian aid to Gaza, which Kurtzer describes as urgently needed. The situation there is “devastating.” He reflected on how a recent ceasefire brought hope to families in Gaza, particularly to those with hostages. However, the resumption of military actions has led to a renewed sense of despair.
Following Kurtzer’s statements, there have been changes in Israel’s approach to humanitarian access, allowing aid trucks to enter Gaza. Critics, however, argue that the amount of aid is still lacking. British Foreign Minister David Lamy recently announced the suspension of trade talks with Israel over its handling of the situation, while French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned Israel’s actions as well. Additionally, UN officials have described the allowed aid as inadequate.
Kurtzer expressed a strong belief that humanitarian access is essential for moving forward. The ongoing crisis, he noted, is deeply troubling and requires immediate and substantial intervention.
