Israeli Hostage Matan Zangauker Pleads for Rescue in New Hamas Video

A newly released video shows Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker, 25, appealing to both the Israeli public and leadership to secure his release from Hamas captivity.

Matan, who was abducted on October 7 from Kibbutz Nir Oz alongside his partner, Ilana Gritzewsky (later freed in a previous deal), described his worsening physical and mental condition. He suffers from muscular dystrophy and, according to his family, has lost significant weight, struggles to stand, and experiences tremors, intestinal blockages, and severe abdominal pain.

Typically, Hamas terrorists instruct hostages on what to say.

“Every day I die a little more,” he said in the video, which was first retrieved by the IDF in Gaza and later published by his mother, Einav Zangauker. “You are letting us die. Don’t forget us.”

Addressing Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahy, Matan said:

“This is your failure and the failure of your government since October 7. People of Israel, don’t abandon us. We want to return before we lose our sanity. Isolation kills, and the darkness is frightening.”

He also addressed his mother directly, expressing gratitude for her activism:

“Mom, I watch you, I hear what you’re doing. I am glad you are okay. I hope to see you again, to sit with you at the table, eat with you, and talk with you.”

The video ended with Matan pleading for a ceasefire deal.

“Don’t let [Netanyahu] sleep, not even for a minute. We are suffering. It is only right that he and his family suffer like us. Why is there still no deal? Don’t forget us.”

According to his family, Matan has endured inhumane conditions in Gaza: shackling, confinement in a cage, flea and rat infestations, and poor nutrition. While food supplies have improved slightly, he reportedly avoids eating due to his deteriorating health.

His mother Einav has become a leading figure in the campaign to bring home the hostages, speaking at rallies and protests. “We cannot allow this to go on,” she has said. “We must bring them all home.”