What It Is About
Recently released after about 50 days in Hamas captivity, 19 children and 7 women exhibited significant psychological and physical trauma due to isolation, intimidation, lack of food and water, and emotional abuse. This was revealed in a groundbreaking study conducted at Schneider Children’s Medical Center, marking the first research on hostage children immediately following their release.
Why It Matters
The study underscores the severe physical and psychological harm inflicted on innocent civilians by Hamas militants. It highlights Israel’s commitment to addressing and understanding the trauma faced by victims of terrorism.
The Big Picture
The hostages were part of the 251 people kidnapped on October 7, when 3,000 Hamas terrorists carried out an egregious attack on Israel, killing 1,200 people with immense brutality, including acts of sexual violence. Around 115 of the hostages are still imprisoned in Gaza, painting a dire picture of their ongoing suffering.
The First Study of Its Kind
Under the guidance of Dr. Noa Ziv from Schneider Children’s Medical Center, the patients underwent a rigorous medical evaluation, including physical examinations and various tests. This marks the first comprehensive study on the medical and physical impact of captivity on children, setting a precedent for future research and treatment.
Underground and Dark Conditions
Captives reported abysmal conditions during their imprisonment, including lack of sanitation and hygiene, resulting in infections and severe vitamin deficiencies. The physical impact of prolonged captivity included muscle damage due to being kept immobile for extensive periods.
Hunger and Thirst
All captives suffered hunger, with significant weight loss observed in many. They endured a deficient diet, primarily composed of rice and white bread, lacking essential nutrients. This illustrates the cruel methods employed by Hamas to break the spirit of their captives.
Psychological Traumas
The psychological impact on the children was profound, including symptoms like nightmares, unprovoked crying, and extreme withdrawal. The release of these findings sheds light on the immediate and potential long-term consequences of such brutal captivity, raising concerns for those still held hostage.
What’s Next
Israel remains committed to providing continued care for the released hostages and working to ensure their recovery. The results of this study provide critical insights, but they also highlight the pressing need for ongoing support and attention to those still suffering in captivity.
The magnitude of psychological trauma is immense, and the researchers hope these tragic events will never again be clinically relevant, underlining the necessity to protect children and their families from such atrocities.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.