Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denounced the tumultuous scenes that unfolded during the recent handover of hostages in Khan Younis, Gaza. Television footage revealed freed Israeli hostages being surrounded by a frenzied crowd before their transfer to the Red Cross. Netanyahu labeled these events as “shocking” and further evidence of Hamas’s “unimaginable cruelty.” He has called upon mediators to ensure the safety of hostages in future exchanges, warning that any harm to them will incur severe consequences.
The chaotic handover involved seven hostages, including Israeli civilians Gadi Mozes and Arbel Yehoud, who were mobbed by onlookers during their release. Five Thai civilians were also part of the exchange. The incident has prompted Israel to seek assurances from international mediators to prevent a recurrence of such disorder in future hostage releases.