UNITED NATIONS – Noa Argamani, a former hostage, shared her experiences with the U.N. Security Council, describing her time in Hamas captivity as “pure hell” and urging the release of all remaining hostages.
Argamani emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “Being here today is a miracle, but I’m here to tell you we have no time.” She recounted witnessing terrible events, lacking medical attention, and enduring harsh conditions.
A widely circulated video showed Argamani’s abduction from the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023, where Hamas terrorists forced her onto a motorcycle and took her into Gaza.
“I believe that you all, the international community, must understand that the hostages are in hell,” she declared.
Argamani, who was held captive by Hamas for eight months before being rescued by , expressed that the hostages feel “abandoned by the world.”
Danny Danon commended Argamani’s “bravery and dignity,” telling the council, “Noa Argamani is not just a witness or a victim of Hamas’ cruelty, she is a survivor.”
Despite the powerful impact of Argamani’s testimony, the U.N. Security Council session largely revolved around Israel’s actions during the Gaza war. Many speakers briefly acknowledged Argamani’s account before criticizing Israel.
Danon stated to the press, “Unfortunately, we don’t have high expectations of the council. The very fact that since Oct. 7, they were not able to pass a resolution about the hostages, about the atrocities of Oct. 7, it speaks for itself.”
He did, however, thank the U.S., the U.K., Greece, and France for addressing the hostages and the tragic deaths of the Bibas family.
During her address, Argamani pleaded for the release of her partner, Avinatan Or, who was also abducted at the Nova music festival and remains a hostage in Gaza.
“Until Avinatan returns, my heart is in captivity,” Argamani told the Security Council.
Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire agreement in January, initiating Phase One, which involves exchanging 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees for the remaining hostages. However, Israel recently postponed a prisoner release, citing Hamas’ treatment of the hostages, including their forced participation in ceremonies, as the reason.
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