Now, the prospect of calls from the Israeli military fills the families of many hostages with dread. As part of a deal, hostages would likely be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The condition of hostages held in Gaza varies depending on the behavior of their captors as well as whether they are held above ground or in tunnels. Hostages held alone rather than in groups are more at risk of deterioration, according to Israeli health professionals who have treated returned hostages. The military has also been trying to learn the fate of Israeli hostages by tracing DNA found in tunnels inside Gaza, said Tamir Hayman, a former head of Israeli military intelligence.

Source: Wall Street Journal June 20, 2024 10:51 UTC