Freed Hostages Report Hunger, Deprivation During Hamas Captivity

Four female Israeli soldiers said they were forced to cook for Hamas terrorists while not being fed.

Released Israeli soldier Naama Levy, who was captured in southern Israel during the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas, embraces loved ones after being released as part of a cease-fire deal on Jan. 25, 2025. Israel Defense Forces/Handout via Reuters

Hostages freed after more than a year of Hamas captivity have a long road ahead as they try to recover from hunger, deprivation, and the effects of being held underground in the dark for long periods.

Doctors fear their vision may suffer permanent damage, a spokesman for the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said at a press conference on Jan. 27.