Gaza: Hamas' armed wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, has announced a conditional offer to coordinate with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to deliver food and medicine to Israeli hostages, provided that Israel opens humanitarian corridors for Palestinians in Gaza. The announcement was made by Abu Obeida, the group's spokesperson, on Telegram.

According to Anadolu Agency, Abu Obeida stated that the al-Qassam Brigades is prepared to respond positively to any ICRC request for aid delivery to Israeli captives. However, this willingness is contingent upon Israel's agreement to fully and continuously open humanitarian corridors for the flow of essential supplies to Palestinians across Gaza and to halt aerial activities during these deliveries.

Abu Obeida emphasized that the captives are not being deliberately starved, asserting that they receive the same food available to Hamas fighters and ordinary Palestinians under the blockade. He noted that no special privileges would be granted to the captives while Palestinians face starvation and blockade.

This statement follows a conversation between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Red Cross' regional director. Netanyahu urged the Red Cross to assist in providing food and medical care to the hostages.

The situation has been further highlighted by a recent video released by the al-Qassam Brigades, showing Israeli captive Evyatar David appearing emaciated due to the ongoing siege. The video depicts him in a cramped room, displaying signs of severe malnutrition. Scenes from a previous prisoner swap in January were also included.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza persists as Israel maintains a blockade, preventing aid shipments from entering the region since March 2. This blockade has led to famine conditions for approximately 2.4 million Palestinians.

Despite international calls for a ceasefire, Israel has continued its offensive on Gaza since October 7, 2023, resulting in over 60,800 Palestinian deaths, predominantly among women and children. Additionally, the International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes in Gaza. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.