Israeli Health Ministry publishes medical protocols for returning hostages
Israel's Health Ministry Prepares for Hostage Release Amid Ceasefire Uncertainty
On Thursday, Israel's Health Ministry released a detailed plan for receiving hostages freed from Hamas captivity, as the ceasefire agreement remains uncertain. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of not honoring the ceasefire agreement and has delayed Cabinet discussions until all details are confirmed by mediators. If approved, the ceasefire would begin on Sunday, leading to the release of 33 hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
Medical Protocol for Hostage Returnees
The Health Ministry's plan includes stages of care, treatment, and long-term support for the returnees. Selected hospitals include Ichilov, Beilinson, Sheba, Assaf Harofeh, Barzilai, and Soroka, chosen for their proximity to Gaza. A minimum hospitalization period of four days is recommended, with final decisions made by the returnees and their families.
Specialized Care and Support
Each returned hostage will be accommodated in "Returnee Wings" with private rooms for them and their families. Military representatives will have designated spaces, and general areas will be available for larger gatherings. A long-term support framework will be led by a team of healthcare professionals, including primary care physicians, specialists, social workers, and mental health experts. Forensic physicians will document medical-legal evidence related to captivity.
Outpatient Clinics and Psychological Support
Outpatient clinics will provide ongoing medical and emotional support after discharge. Social workers and mental health professionals will assess psychological needs to help reintegrate returnees into normal life.
Report on Hostage Conditions
A December report by the Health Ministry detailed severe abuse suffered by hostages during a November 2023 ceasefire. Hostages, including children, faced extreme conditions such as sexual assaults, physical beatings, and starvation. Many were deprived of basic hygiene and medical care, leading to severe suffering.
Hamas's attacks on October 7 resulted in 1,200 deaths and 252 hostages. Of the 95 remaining hostages, over 30 have been declared dead. Hamas has also held two Israeli civilians since 2014 and 2015, along with the bodies of two soldiers killed in 2014.
Doubts Revealed
Israel's Health Ministry
This is a part of the government in Israel that takes care of health-related issues, like hospitals and doctors.
Hostages
Hostages are people who are captured and held by someone, usually to get something in return.
Ceasefire
A ceasefire is when fighting stops for a while, usually because both sides agree to pause and talk.
Prime Minister Netanyahu
He is the leader of Israel's government, like the Prime Minister of India.
Hamas
Hamas is a group that controls the Gaza Strip and has conflicts with Israel.
Returnee Wings
These are special parts of hospitals where people who were hostages can get the care they need when they come back.
October attacks
These were violent events that happened in October, where many people were hurt or taken hostage.
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