Eli Sharabi, an Israeli hostage freed after 491 days in captivity by Hamas, delivered an emotional testimony at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on Thursday, detailing the brutal treatment he endured and questioning the international community’s response.
‘Chained Like an Animal, Begging for Food’
Sharabi, who was among 251 people taken hostage during Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, recalled his harrowing ordeal. He revealed that when he was released on February 8, 2025, he weighed only 44 kg, less than the weight of his youngest daughter, who was killed along with his wife and older daughter in the surprise attack that claimed 1,200 lives.
“I have come back from hell. I was kept underground, starved, beaten, and chained like an animal. For 491 days, I begged for food, begged to use the bathroom—begging became my existence,” he said.
‘Where Was the World?’
Sharabi lashed out at the United Nations and the Red Cross, questioning their absence during his captivity. He also urged the UNSC to take action in securing the release of 59 hostages still held in Gaza, many of whom are feared dead.
“If you stand for humanity, prove it,” he challenged world leaders.
Sharabi also recounted the attack on Kibbutz Be’eri, where he lived, recalling how he had reassured his wife that the Israeli army would come—but they never did.
Gaza Death Toll Rises Amid Renewed Fighting
Meanwhile, Palestinian health officials reported that Israeli strikes killed at least 85 Palestinians overnight, bringing the death toll to nearly 600 since Israel broke a truce earlier this week. The ceasefire had facilitated the release of more than two dozen hostages and had provided relative calm since late January.
Hours after the latest strikes, Hamas retaliated by firing three rockets at Israel, though no casualties were reported.
- The Israeli military has reimposed a blockade on northern Gaza, allowing movement only by foot via the coastal road.
- Israeli ground forces are advancing near Beit Lahiya in the north and Rafah in the south.
- Israel has also moved to split Gaza in two, retaking part of the Netzarim corridor, a key strategic area.
The Search for Hostages Continues
Despite international pressure, dozens of Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, with their fate uncertain. Sharabi’s plea for action has once again highlighted the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict, as hostilities between Israel and Hamas escalate once more.
Sources By Agencies
