Israel-Hamas conflict: Video emerges of Franco-Israeli woman abducted by Hamas at music festival
Israel-Hamas conflict: In a distressing turn of events, Hamas has released a video featuring an Israeli woman who was taken hostage during the October 7 attacks that resulted in more than 1,300 casualties and led to conflict in Gaza. This incident involved the abduction of around 200 people during the attacks.
The video, released by Hamas' military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, presents a woman identifying herself as 21-year-old Miya Schem. In the footage, her arm is visibly wrapped in bandages.
Last week, Mia was abducted by Hamas.
IDF officials have since informed Mia’s family and are in continuous contact with them.
In the video published by Hamas, they try to portray themselves as humane. However, they are a horrorific terrorist organization responsible for the… — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 16, 2023
Miya reveals that she hails from Sderot, a small Israeli city located near the Gaza border. She recounts how, on the day of the attacks, she was attending the Supernova Sukkot Music Festival on Kibbutz Re'im when Hamas operatives launched an attack on the gathering. Tragically, at least 260 individuals at the music festival lost their lives, and others, including Miya, were taken hostage.
The video, lasting slightly over a minute, shows healthcare workers tending to Miya's injury. Despite the dire circumstances, the Israeli woman expresses gratitude for the medical care she is receiving. She also appeals for her prompt return to her family: "I'm only asking to be returned home as soon as possible, to my family, to my parents, to my siblings. Please get us out of here as soon as possible."
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed Miya's abduction, stating that officials have made contact with her family and are in close communication with them. The IDF acknowledges Hamas's attempt in the video to depict themselves as humane but underscores their status as a terrorist organization, responsible for the murder and abduction of individuals spanning all age groups. "At this time, we are deploying all intelligence and operational measures for the return of all hostages - including Mia," the IDF affirmed.
Miya's family has responded to the video, expressing their relief at seeing her safe. They have sought international support, and her case has been brought to the attention of French President Emmanuel Macron, as Miya holds dual Israeli-French citizenship.
This incident underscores the complexities and human toll of conflicts in the region, affecting the lives of individuals and families on both sides.
- With inputs from agencies
