Hamas’ armed wing, the Izz el-Deen al-Qassam Brigades, has released two U.S. hostages from Gaza – a mother and her daughter – “for humanitarian reasons” in response to Qatari mediation efforts in the war with Israel, according to spokesperson Abu Ubaida.
Reportedly, Hamas has taken approximately 200 hostages during a deadly rampage on October 7th, which was carried out from the Gaza Strip and targeted communities and military bases in southern Israel. The attack is considered the largest since the 1973 Arab-Israeli war.
Hamas claims that 50 additional hostages are being held by other armed groups in the enclave, with more than 20 hostages allegedly killed by Israeli air strikes. However, Hamas has not provided further details on the matter.
Abu Ubaida stated that the release of the hostages is motivated by humanitarian reasons, aiming to disprove the claims made by President Joe Biden and his administration. According to Hamas, these claims are considered false and baseless.
In response to the hostage crisis and the attack by Hamas gunmen, resulting in the deaths of 1,400 Israelis, Israel has conducted air strikes on Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 4,000 individuals. The Israeli government has expressed its determination to free the hostages and eliminate Hamas.
Furthermore, Israel has amassed tanks and troops near the perimeter of the enclave, preparing for a potential ground invasion. They have called on Palestinians to evacuate the northern area of Gaza, where Hamas is believed to be entrenched.
Israel has maintained a full blockade of the enclave and has asserted that it will continue until all Israeli hostages are released.
Among the hostages held by Hamas are women, children, the elderly, foreign nationals, and some Israeli soldiers. Efforts are underway to secure their release.
On October 16th, the armed wing of Hamas stated that the non-Israeli hostages are considered “guests” and will be released when the circumstances
