A video depicting a severely emaciated Israeli hostage held by Hamas has been released by his family, coinciding with a meeting between hostage families and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The nearly five-minute clip features Evyatar David, aged 24, appearing gaunt and distressed in a narrow tunnel, where he reportedly is forced to dig what is described as his “own grave.” The video was shared with public approval from David’s family on October 7, 2023, marking the anniversary of his abduction during the attack on the Nova music festival in southern Israel.
In the video, David recounts the harrowing conditions he has endured, stating that for days he has been given only minimal sustenance such as beans and lentils, or nothing at all. He expresses feelings of abandonment, specifically addressing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu with the words, “I have been completely abandoned by you, my prime minister, by you, who should be taking care of me and all the other prisoners.” Hamas refers to their captives as “prisoners” in their propaganda campaigns.
The video reaches a chilling conclusion as a staged scene shows David digging in the sandy floor of the tunnel. He says, “Here I am digging my own grave,” highlighting his deteriorating health and sense of impending doom. The clip ends with a message urging that “only a ceasefire agreement will bring them back.”
Families Gather in Tel Aviv to Demand Action
On the same day, relatives of hostages in Gaza gathered behind a barbed wire installation in Tel Aviv to draw attention to their loved ones’ plight. One family member, Einav Zangauker, whose son holds dual U.S. and Israeli citizenship, described their suffering as akin to a Holocaust, stating, “Never again is happening right now. They will not survive much longer.” Zangauker urged Netanyahu to negotiate a comprehensive deal to secure the hostages’ release.
Witkoff met with the grieving families and expressed the U.S. commitment to bringing their loved ones home while holding Hamas accountable for their actions. He stated, “We will get your children home and hold Hamas responsible for any bad acts on their part. We will do what’s right for the Gazan people.” Witkoff emphasized that the U.S. knows who is alive among the hostages and assured families that accountability would follow if they do not return safely.
Witkoff’s visit included a stop at a food distribution site in Gaza, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. He raised hopes that an end to the conflict may be imminent, stating, “We have a plan to end the war and bring everyone home.”
U.S. President Donald Trump has described the release of all hostages as a “sacred mission.” Current estimates suggest that at least 20 hostages remain alive in Gaza, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. The families continue to call for immediate action, as the humanitarian and emotional toll of the ongoing conflict weighs heavily on those waiting for their loved ones’ return.
