Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) has released a video showing Alexander Troufanov, a Russian-Israeli hostage captured in Gaza on October 7, 2023. In the video, Troufanov describes harsh conditions in captivity, including lack of food, water, electricity, and hygiene supplies, which have led to health issues. He also appealed to the Israeli public for support in a hostage deal and expressed fear for his life amid ongoing Israeli operations in Gaza.
Troufanov’s family authorized the video’s release. His mother, Yelena Trufanov, expressed relief at seeing him alive but is deeply concerned about his wellbeing. Troufanov was captured with family members, though his mother, grandmother, and girlfriend have since been released, while his father was killed during the initial attack.
Earlier today, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad released a new proof-of-life video of Russian-Israeli hostage Alexander Troufanov, who has remained in captivity since October 7.
In the video, Troufanov says that he and the other hostages are running out of food and basic hygiene… pic.twitter.com/Ruhu8a2KJv
— Casey Babb (@DrCaseyBabb) November 13, 2024
This is the third such video of Troufanov released by PIJ, with prior videos emerging in May. PIJ has not provided independent verification of the conditions or timing of the video, nor have other parties been able to authenticate it.
Israel has cautioned that PIJ may use the videos as psychological tactics, and officials emphasize that messages may be scripted.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, an Israeli advocacy group, released a statement following the video, underscoring the urgency of reaching a deal for Troufanov and the other 101 known hostages. As winter approaches, they warned, the hostages face increased threats from malnutrition, health complications, and poor living conditions after over a year in captivity.
