UN Torture Rapporteur Urges Immediate Release of Hamas Hostages, Calls for Peace

Edwards, a leading human rights expert appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, described the images as a stark reminder of the cruelty inflicted on detainees and the urgent need for international intervention.

The United Nations Special Rapporteur on torture, Alice Jill Edwards, has renewed her urgent demand for the unconditional and immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, following the weekend release of videos and photographs showing emaciated captives in distress.

Edwards, a leading human rights expert appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, described the images as a stark reminder of the cruelty inflicted on detainees and the urgent need for international intervention.

“Cruelty is being used as psychological warfare, with devastating consequences for individuals, families, societies and for peace,” she said. “This war more than most is also being fought in the public arena of the media, with images of suffering hitting our screens every day.”

Hostage-Taking as an International Crime

The Special Rapporteur stressed that aiding and abetting hostage-taking constitutes an international crime, warning that anyone involved must be held accountable before a court of law. She directed her message not only to Hamas and other armed groups, but also to individuals or entities harbouring hostages.

Edwards appealed to States with influence to help break the stalemate over ceasefire negotiations, urging:

• Immediate access for international observers to all hostages and detainees.

• A comprehensive peace settlement through negotiations.

• The release of all arbitrarily detained Palestinians.

Call for Ceasefire, Humanitarian Aid, and Accountability

The UN expert has repeatedly raised concerns over torture and ill-treatment of hostages and detainees in the conflict, submitting allegations to the parties involved. She reiterated demands for:

• The urgent expansion of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

• An end to hostilities and the pursuit of a two-state peace model.

• Independent investigations into all alleged war crimes and human rights violations.

“If anyone was immune to the cruelty being inflicted on the hostages, these latest videos should be proof enough,” Edwards said, stressing the moral and legal imperative for action.

Broader Context and Previous Recommendations

In March 2025, Edwards published a comprehensive report on hostage-taking as a form of torture under international law. The report examined global cases, outlining how hostage-taking often involves prolonged physical and psychological harm in violation of multiple international treaties.

Among her recommendations was a call for the UN Secretary-General to appoint a hostage envoy tasked with representing the interests of hostages and their families, advocating for their release, and coordinating international responses.

Global Implications of the Crisis

Edwards’ latest statement highlights not only the urgency of freeing hostages in the ongoing Israel–Hamas conflict but also the broader humanitarian and political consequences of prolonged captivity. She warned that such acts deepen mistrust, fuel cycles of retaliation, and undermine prospects for a durable peace in the region.

Her appeal adds to mounting international pressure for a negotiated ceasefire, improved humanitarian access, and renewed commitment to a two-state solution as the basis for long-term stability in Israel and Palestine.