In the midst of escalating frustration and anger in Israel over the continued captivity of 125 civilians and soldiers by Hamas in Gaza, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has found itself at the center of the controversy. Accused of failing to visit the hostages, deliver necessary medicines, and act passively towards Hamas, the organization has responded, outlining the limitations of their role as a neutral intermediary.

Sarah Elizabeth Davies, ICRC spokesperson based in Jerusalem, empathized with the anguish felt by Israelis but emphasized the need to understand the ICRC's mandate as a neutral and impartial organization. Speaking on the Haaretz Weekly podcast, she acknowledged the frustration and heartbreak Israelis were experiencing in the wake of recent hostage testimonies highlighting deteriorating conditions, hunger, lack of medical care, and even torture.

Yael Freidson, a legal correspondent for Haaretz who has been reporting on the hostage situation, shed light on the dire circumstances faced by those held captive by Hamas. Some of the hostages are elderly, suffer from life-threatening medical conditions, or were severely injured during their abduction. Freidson revealed that some hostages had been confined to underground tunnels for over 60 days, enduring reduced food supplies and limited medical treatment. Shockingly, reports also included instances of cruel treatment, such as the separation of siblings and torture, particularly involving children.

The plight of the hostages has resulted in heightened expectations for the Red Cross, with hopes that their representatives could visit the captives and deliver much-needed medicines and messages from families. However, Yael pointed out a knowledge gap regarding the ICRC's capabilities without the consent of both parties. She highlighted the lack of power the Red Cross holds over Hamas.

Jonathan Adiri, who served as the Israel Defense Forces' chief liaison officer to the Red Cross, acknowledged the historical ups and downs in Israel's relationship with the organization. He emphasized the critical importance of the Red Cross's neutrality in situations where trust is nonexistent between conflicting parties. Adiri cautioned against blaming the organization for the fate of the hostages, noting that their ability to receive and safely transport hostages is a significant achievement.

Sarah Elizabeth Davies stressed the need to clarify the boundaries of the Red Cross's mandate, emphasizing that they can only act with the consent of the warring parties involved. Davies made it clear that the organization cannot force its way in, lacking both weapons and political power. While the Red Cross aims to remain neutral to gain trust, their commitment to the immediate release of the Israeli hostages and access to them remains unwavering.

As tensions persist in the region, the fate of the hostages held by Hamas has become a poignant concern for Israel. The role of the Red Cross as a neutral humanitarian organization in such situations highlights the complexities and challenges involved in providing assistance and support. The ICRC continues to advocate for the release of the hostages and hopes that their call will be answered.

Note: This news article is purely based on the provided information and does not express any opinion or broader context beyond the details shared.