Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned the chaotic handover of seven hostages in Khan Younis, where the freed Israelis were surrounded by an aggressive mob before being transferred to the Red Cross.
“I view with great severity the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages. This is further proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hamas terrorist organization,” Netanyahu said in a statement.
Netanyahu demanded that mediators take immediate action to prevent a repeat of such incidents, stating that the safety of hostages must be guaranteed.
“Whoever dares to harm our hostages — will pay,” he warned.
The hostages, including Israeli civilians Gadi Mozes and Arbel Yehoud, were handed over amid a screaming crowd that appeared to obstruct their release.
Five Thai civilians were also transferred in Khan Younis.