“It shows the cruelty of Hamas against elderly civilians, innocents, who require medical attention.”
Hagari spoke to the hostages directly: “Haim, Yoram, and Amiram, I hope you can hear me this evening. You should know that we are doing everything to return you home safely. We will not rest until you return.”
The three men look like they have spent a significant amount of time in captivity but there is no information indicating when it was filmed or where they are located.
Yoram Metzger’s son, Roni, told media outlets that his father, who has diabetes, looked like he had lost a lot of weight and appeared “years older.”
“Father is not in a good condition. Everything must be done to bring (the hostages) home.”
Metzger said: “You don’t see a shred of liveliness on their faces.”
A statement from Kibbutz Nir Oz said: “We appreciate any sign of life from the hostages, but time is running out. The immediate release of all those abducted, through any potential negotiation avenue, is urgently required.”
“Each passing day exacerbates their situation. Recent events sadly illustrate that the hostages’ situation is deteriorating with each passing day, particularly for older individuals.”
The video is accompanied by a song by the Israeli composer Avihu Medina about being forgotten in old age.
Israeli media does not play the propaganda videos released by Hamas, which have been described as a form of psychological torture.
Amiram Cooper is a founding member of Kibbutz Nir Ox, a father of three and a grandfather of nine. His wife, Nurit, was also abducted to Gaza and was later released.
Chaim Peri is a father of five and a grandfather of 13. When he was abducted from his home he saved his wife, Osnat, who was hiding in the safe room.
Yoram Metzger is a father of three and a grandfather of seven. His wife, Tamar, was also abducted and then released.
