Hamas Releases Another Hostage Video: Israel Stunned Again
In a span of just three days, Hamas has released a second video of an Israeli hostage, Evyatar David, intensifying nationwide outrage and anxiety. The video, published on August 1, comes immediately after another disturbing clip surfaced showing Rom Braslavski, an Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) soldier, held captive under similar harsh conditions.
The footage marks yet another devastating psychological blow to Israel, fuelling public outcry, emotional protests, and mounting pressure on the Netanyahu government.
Inside the Video: A Glimpse Into Gaza’s Tunnels
The clip begins with previously unseen footage of Evyatar David in a van during an earlier hostage release in 2025. The scene soon shifts to the present, showing a frail and emaciated David, wearing only a pair of shorts, surviving in a Gaza tunnel under dire conditions. His physical condition appears visibly deteriorated, sparking grave concerns.
In the video, Hamas blames the Israeli government for David’s poor health and humanitarian neglect. They also highlight the starvation crisis within Gaza, stating that “hostages eat what Gazans eat” – a direct attempt to draw parallels between the suffering of Palestinian civilians and Israeli hostages.
Braslavski’s Plea and Hamas’s Psychological Warfare
Just a day before David’s clip, a video of Rom Braslavski — a captive IDF soldier — was released by a Hamas ally. In the video, Braslavski detailed his ordeal and made an emotional appeal to the Israeli government, urging them to secure his release and put an end to the war in Gaza.
His family, devastated by the video, openly criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and even appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene and bring him home.
Anger and Protests Erupt in Israel
Following the release of both videos, families of the hostages took to the streets in protest. The Israeli public, already weary after 668 days of the war in Gaza, is growing increasingly frustrated with what they see as the government’s failure to prioritize hostage negotiations.
Amid the protests, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff met with several families to listen to their concerns and express solidarity. His visit came after Trump publicly voiced concern over the deepening humanitarian crisis in the region.
Deir al-Balah Offensive Raises Alarms
Just as the hostage videos were released, the IDF launched a new ground offensive in Deir al-Balah, the last so-called “safe zone” in Gaza. This marked the first time Israeli forces entered the region since October 2023.
The operation immediately alarmed hostage families who feared that ground combat in areas suspected of holding captives could further endanger their loved ones. Their worst fears were echoed when Hamas allies claimed they lost contact with Braslavski’s captors soon after the military action began.
Ceasefire Talks Collapse — Again
These developments come amidst indirect ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, which have stalled once more. Analysts suggest the renewed fighting and shocking hostage revelations have only deepened mistrust between the two sides.
Netanyahu Responds: “Horrifying”
Reacting to the videos, Prime Minister Netanyahu stated:
“The video of the emaciated Israeli hostages proves that Hamas doesn’t want a deal.”
He also added that he personally spoke to the families of David and Braslavski, expressing sympathy:
“I called the families, embraced them on behalf of myself, my wife, and on behalf of you all.”
Still, critics argue that such statements offer little comfort to the hostages’ families — who now demand action, not words.
Is Israel Paying the Price for an Unending War?
hardline stance and prolonged military operations. Many are asking:
Is Israel paying the price for a war that no longer has a clear objective or exit plan?
With families protesting, international pressure building, and hostages visibly suffering, Israel’s leadership is facing a critical test — one that may determine the outcome not just of hostages’ lives, but also of the nation’s political future.
