Hamas Offers Red Cross Aid Access to Hostages Under Conditions Amid Gaza Crisis

Hamas said Sunday it is willing to coordinate with the Red Cross to deliver aid to hostages in Gaza if Israel permanently opens humanitarian corridors and halts airstrikes during aid distribution. The statement follows global outrage over a video showing Israeli hostage Evyatar David, appearing emaciated, digging what he said was his own grave.

Israel says 50 hostages remain in Gaza, with only 20 believed alive. Hamas has so far denied humanitarian groups access. The Hostages Families Forum condemned Hamas, demanding the captives’ immediate release and warning that every death will be its responsibility.

Gaza’s health ministry reported six more deaths from starvation or malnutrition in 24 hours, raising the toll to 175 since the war began, including 93 children. Fuel shortages have crippled hospitals, with doctors treating only critical cases. Israel allowed limited fuel deliveries Sunday, with four UN tankers entering Gaza.

The war, now nearing two years, began after Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023 attack killed over 1,200 in Israel and took 251 hostages. Israel’s response has killed more than 60,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials. Aid access remains a flashpoint: Israel says over 23,000 tons entered last week, while the UN warns airdrops and limited convoys cannot prevent famine for Gaza’s 2.2 million displaced residents.

Belgium and France have begun air-dropping aid, while looting of trucks by desperate civilians and armed gangs hampers distribution. On Sunday, Palestinian officials said at least 80 people were killed by Israeli strikes, including a Palestinian Red Crescent staff member in Khan Younis.

Israel’s foreign ministry confirmed the UN Security Council will hold a special session Tuesday on the hostage situation, as pressure mounts for a resolution to the deepening humanitarian crisis.