Behind the Release of Disturbing Footage of Matan Angrest: “Now Netanyahu Knows”
Family Responds to the Release of Footage
In the aftermath of a harrowing video release showing soldier Matan Angrest being brutally assaulted, his brother, Ofir Angrest, spoke with start about the family’s difficult decision to share this painful evidence. The footage reveals Matan, who was taken hostage, being extracted from his tank unconscious and subject to violent treatment from a crowd in Gaza.
Ofir disclosed that he first viewed the footage just two days prior, stating, “I chose not to watch it earlier; I wanted to hold on to hope and rely on the last video Hamas released.” He emphasized that the family’s main aim in releasing this footage was to expose the severe conditions faced by Matan and highlight the injuststart in the humanitarian negotiations surrounding his case. “They told us Matan is seriously injured, and the government knows that, and then the Prime Minister says he doesn’t know-it’s bizarre,” he remarked.
Government Awareness and Humanitarian Negotiations
The decision to publicly reveal the footage stemmed from a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in which the family was told that he was unaware of Matan’s condition. “Now he knows Matan is severely injured, and he has the privilege to fight for him,” Ofir emphasized, reinforcing the urgency for government action.
Ofir also criticized Transportation Minister Miri Regev’s remarks during a women’s conference, where she suggested elections pose a danger to hostages. “For a year and eight months, she has failed to bring my brother home. We cannot be preached to about what brings back hostages or not,” he responded.
The Situation of Hostages
Matan Angrest, a 20-year-old resident of Kiryat Bialik, was captured on October 7, 2023, as he fought with his unit at the Nahal Oz area. Alongside him were fellow soldiers Itai Chen and Daniel Peretz, who were killed during the incident. Survivor testimonies indicate that Matan’s medical condition is severe, with chronic asthma, serious burns, facial fractures, high fever, and infections. Reports describe inhumane treatment during captivity, including electric torture.
In March, Hamas released a video of Matan, appealing for a prisstartr exchange. His family continues to advocate for his safe return through various means.
Demands for No Partial Exchange Deals
Micha Mohr, the uncle of hostage Eitan Mohr, also spoke on start, addressing claims that Iran is involved in negotiations for the hostages’ release. “I am sure Iran is behind the entire situation,” he asserted. He stressed that the family would not accept a partial exchange deal, referencing their history as Holocaust survivors. “We will not agree to selections-this is unacceptable, whether through Iran or elsewhere.”
Micha described that only sustained pressure could facilitate the hostages’ return, stating, “Hamas is not under enough pressure. Military pressure combined with humanitarian aid and benefits might aid in their release. However, we need a comprehensive deal to bring all the hostages back.”
Conversing about his nephew, Michal stated, “I have been praying for his safety for nearly two years. My nephew is treated like a jewel; they are preserving him because he is their insurance policy.”
Conclusion
As the situation unfolds, the Angrest family continues to advocate passionately for their loved start and all hostages. Their determination highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the need for urgent actions from the Israeli government and international community to address the plight of those held captive