More information into claims a British-Israeli hostage has died in Gaza at the hands of Hamas is being urgently sought by the Foreign Office.
Last night the Palestinian militant group released a video saying that Nadav Popplewell, who was taken hostage during its October 7 attack on Israel, died after being wounded in an Israeli airstrike a month ago.
It blamed Israel for the death, saying it was unable to give Popplewell emergency treatment due to hospitals having been destroyed in the area.
No evidence has been provided by Hamas to verify the claims.
A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: “We’re urgently seeking more information following the release of this video.
"Our thoughts are with his family at this extremely distressing time.
“The UK Government has been working with partners across the region to secure the release of hostages, including British nationals.
"We will continue to do all we can to secure the release of hostages.”
Earlier on Saturday, Hamas released undated footage of Popplewell, 51, with a black eye confirming his name.
The militants released a second video hours later in which they said he died of wounds sustained in a missile strike.
The footage shared by Hamas showed Popplewell while he was clearly alive but injured.
Text in English superimposed over the top of the video stated: "Nadav Popplewell, a British citizen, died today after being seriously injured a month ago (due to Zionist air strikes).
Abu Obeida, the spokesman of the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, said in a separate statement: "His health deteriorated because he did not receive intensive medical care because the enemy has destroyed the Gaza Strip's hospitals."
Pressure is growing on Israel to secure the release of hostages still held by Hamas.
In a statement yesterday, The Hostages and Missing Families Forum campaign group said: "Every sign of life received from the hostages held by Hamas is another cry of distress to the Israeli government and its leaders."
It added: "We don't have a moment to spare. You must strive to implement a deal that will bring them all back today."
The campaign group described Popplewell as “generous and kind” and an avid reader of science fiction novels.
