Following the release of the last 20 Israeli hostages from Gaza, information is starting to surface about their health and the challenging experiences they faced during captivity. Similar to those freed previously, the hostages who returned recently appeared notably thin, indicating potential malnutrition.
Israeli Channel 12 reported that Abinatan Orr, who was abducted from the Nova Music Festival along with his partner, Noa Al-Ghamani, lost a staggering 30 to 40 percent of his body weight during his time in captivity. Official medical records described him as “thin and extremely weak,” and he spent much of the conflict in harsh conditions in central Gaza, often isolated.
For over two years, Orr was kept in solitude, with no interaction with other prisoners until his release. He had little access to news and only learned about the IDF operation that led to Al-Ghamani’s rescue after his own liberation.
Elkanah Bobot, another hostage, was also reported to have suffered significantly. While helping others evacuate from the festival, he was confined in a tunnel and often in chains. Bobot, who was freed on his wedding anniversary, mentioned being forced to eat in his final days of captivity and was in considerable pain upon return.
Medical professionals, including Professor Hagai Levine from the Hostage and Missing Families Forum, highlighted their concerns about the long-term effects of severe nutritional deficiencies. There’s a risk of refeeding syndrome, which can be life-threatening, particularly if not managed correctly. Some hostages were allegedly force-fed beforehand to create a healthier image for propaganda purposes, a practice that poses serious health risks.
In terms of overall health, the hostages are facing low vitamin D levels due to their months spent confined underground, which could lead to various physical issues including weakened bones and compromised immune functions.
Bobot seemed to have somewhat more exposure to media during his time as a hostage, with reports indicating that his family’s pleas for his freedom were visible in public spaces in Tel Aviv.
In another case, Alon Ohel, taken from a shelter during the initial attack, sustained serious injuries including shrapnel damage to his eye, which could affect his vision permanently. His family reported that he was in considerable pain upon returning.
Levine pointed out that many hostages who were injured on October 7 had not received appropriate medical care, leading to further complications such as infections and chronic pain. In instances where medical procedures were performed, like those undergone by Matan Angrest, it lacked anesthesia, contributing to additional suffering.
As more details about the freed hostages emerge, it’s evident that the physical and psychological toll of their captivity is profound. Although these 20 hostages have returned to Israel, the bodies of 24 deceased hostages remain with Hamas, which initially planned to return 28 but has only delivered four so far.
On Tuesday, two of the deceased were identified as Binpin Joshi and Guy Illuz, while the names of the other two, who were also returned recently, are still unknown.
