Yocheved Lifshitz, one of the first Israeli hostages released from Hamas captivity, urged the return of the remaining captives held in Gaza because "time is running out."
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In an interview with NBC News, Lifshitz said, "They need to get out today. Otherwise, they won't survive. The lack of air in the tunnels, as well as the shortage of food and medicine, could bring people to complete exhaustion. And they just won't make it."
Video: Shoes of the kidnapped Israelis on display / Dor Malul
Lifshitz, 85, was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nir Oz together with her husband, Oded, who remains captive. She was driven across the border on the back of a moped, while a crown of Palestinians beat her with sticks.
Lifshitz' daughter, Sharone, who also participated in the interview, said, "Hostage families feel strongly that this week is the most crucial week. If it doesn't happen this week, then it is Christmas, and then the New Year, and most of them will be dead."
On Sunday, authorities revealed the nameד of 20 Israelis who were killed in captivity, further raising concerns for the remaining 130 still held by Hamas.
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