By Silvia Fainaro, thinc.
International law strictly prohibits the taking of hostages under the Geneva Conventions (1949) and the International Convention Against the Taking of Hostages (1979). Hostage-taking is considered a war crime and a crime against humanity when committed during armed conflicts. The Fourth Geneva Convention specifically protects civilians, stating that no person may be taken hostage, regardless of circumstances. The Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) also categorizes hostage-taking as a prosecutable offense. States are obligated to prevent and punish hostage-taking, and armed groups that engage in it may face international sanctions and criminal prosecution.
The tragic fate of the Bibas family has become a heartbreaking symbol of the horrors of hostage-taking. Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel (4) and Kfir (just 10 months old), were kidnapped by Hamas during the October 7 attack on Israel. After months of uncertainty, it was confirmed that they were murdered in captivity, and Hamas recently returned their bodies along with that of another hostage, Oded Lifshitz, 83-years-old. This week, the bodies of four Israeli hostages—killed while in Hamas captivity—were also returned, highlighting the brutal reality of hostage-taking and further fuelling calls for international action against such crimes.
thinc. is deeply saddened by these tragic events and sends its heartfelt condolences to the people of Israel and supporters around the world. The brutal killing of innocent hostages, including the Bibas family, is an appalling violation of international law and human dignity. thinc. unequivocally condemns Hamas for these outrageous actions and calls for justice to be served against those responsible.
