Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly condemned the chaotic handover of seven hostages in Khan Younis, where the freed individuals were surrounded by an aggressive crowd before being transferred to the Red Cross.

“I view with great severity the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages. This is further proof of the unimaginable cruelty of the Hamas terrorist organization,” Netanyahu said in a statement.

He urged mediators to take immediate steps to prevent similar incidents in the future, emphasizing the need to guarantee the safety of hostages.

“Whoever dares to harm our hostages—will pay,” he warned.

The hostages included Israeli civilians Gadi Mozes and Arbel Yehoud, who were handed over amid a chaotic scene. Five Thai civilians were also released in Khan Younis.