Geneva: The UN human rights office, OHCHR, called on Monday for Israel and Hamas to ensure that all people they are holding are treated humanely.

According to National News Agency – Lebanon, spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan stated that images of emaciated Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees released as part of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement have been deeply distressing. He noted that the pictures of Israeli hostages released this past weekend show signs of ill-treatment and severe malnourishment, highlighting the dire conditions they endured in Gaza.

The statement also expressed deep concern about the public parading of hostages released by Hamas in Gaza, including statements apparently made under duress during their release. Meanwhile, Palestinians released from Israeli detention have reported experiencing similar treatment under severe conditions, which the OHCHR described as distressing and a cause for serious concern.

Mr. Al-Kheetan emphasized that Israel and Hamas must ensure humane treatment, including freedom from any form of torture or abuse, for all those held under their power. He reminded all parties to the conflict that torture and other forms of ill-treatment of protected persons are war crimes. Those found guilty must receive sentences commensurate with the severity of their conduct.

The spokesperson reiterated that the taking of hostages is a war crime, calling for Hamas to immediately and unconditionally release all hostages and for Israel to immediately and unconditionally release all those arbitrarily detained.