MADRID – The Spanish government has confirmed that Iván Illarramendi, a 46-year-old man from Zarautz, is among the hostages held by the terrorist group Hamás in Israel.
This confirmation came after a statement from Israel’s Foreign Ministry, which included the Spanish flag among those of 42 countries that count citizens among the nearly 200 hostages.
No news since October 7
Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez asked for Illarramendi’s release during an extraordinary meeting of the European Union. No reports have been received about him since October 7, the day Hamás attacked Israel.
Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares had previously announced on October 9 that two Spaniards had been “affected” by Hamás’ attacks. On October 11, it was confirmed that the other Spaniard, 19-year-old Maya Villalobo who was carrying out her military service in Israel, had died.
Location and conditions
Until now, all that was known about Iván Illarramendi was that he stayed in Kibbutz Kissufim with his Chilean wife. This kibbutz is located near the border with the Gaza Strip and was attacked by Hamás militias.
International call
The Israeli Foreign Ministry took to X (formerly Twitter) and made a statement. There he said, that “there are currently foreign citizens from more than 40 countries being held hostage by Hamas.” A ministry spokesperson called for people to share their stories and help bring them home.
Also read: Israeli Embassy accuses Spain of endangering Jewish community
