What’s happening

Senior International Committee of the Red Cross official, Fabrizio Carboni, has indicated both Israel and Hamas are preventing the Red Cross from visiting prisoners, creating an unacceptable impasse affecting both Israeli security prisoners and hostages held by Hamas.

Why it matters

The prohibition on family and Red Cross visitations to prisons in Israel and to hostages in Gaza impacts the humanitarian conditions and rights of detainees on both sides. Such visitations are generally understood as a basic right under international law and safeguard the mental well-being of the incarcerated and assure families of their safety and treatment.

Specific allegations

Carboni reported that Israel has not allowed Red Cross-mediated family visitations to some of its prisons since October 7. For their part, Hamas has refused to allow Red Cross officials to visit hostages. He stressed the need for both sides to grant access, underlining the laudable role such visits play.

Red Cross’s role

Whilst not engaged in the negotiation process for prisoner exchange deals, the Red Cross prepares to facilitate humanitarian needs post-agreement. In the past, the organization has played a key role in ensuring the safe passage of individuals released from Hamas captivity.

Recent reactions

The issue comes to light as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir blocked Israel Prison Service from sharing details about detained terrorists in contravention of security and legal advisories. Attorney-General Gali Baharav-Miara contested the move, saying it may require a resolution at the political-security level.

The bigger picture

A pattern of restricting access by both Israel and Hamas has broad implications for international humanitarian law compliance, political relations, and the ongoing security dialogues between the parties.

This story was first published on ynetnews.com.