Tosay, the Hamas terrorist organization released the first footage indicating that hostages Maxim Herkin and Bar Kupershtein, abducted during the October 7 attack, are still alive and in captivity.
Out of sensitivity to the families, the video—or any part of it—will only be released publicly with their explicit consent.
Currently, 59 individuals remain imprisoned in Gaza, with 24 believed to be alive. Since the conclusion of the second negotiated exchange, indications of life have emerged regarding 19 of them.
The Herkin family identified Maxim’s voice in the brief video clip issued by Hamas. Maxim is a Russian citizen, and in the past, Russia has made efforts to secure his freedom.
Two months ago, senior Hamas leader Moussa Abu Marzouk, who led a delegation to Moscow, commented that any discussion regarding Herkin’s release would only occur during the second phase of the negotiated deal.
Kupershtein, who turned 23 on Sunday, remains captive. He had been working as a security guard at the Nova music festival and was actively involved in helping the wounded during the attack. In a separate video, he is seen restrained and being taken by Hamas operatives.
Bar’s family has obtained information about his current conditions from individuals who were freed in the previous hostage deal.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum Headquarters issued a statement: “The families of Bar Kupershtein and Maksym Harkin do not authorize the publication of the video released by Hamas earlier this evening, nor any parts or images from it. The families have requested that their privacy be respected during this time.”
{Matzav.com Israel}