Hamas Releases Two Israeli Hostages for Humanitarian Reasons
Many fear that the hostages' lives could be further endangered as Israel prepares for a ground invasion of Gaza.
Israelis, whose close ones were captured by Palestinian factions, demonstrate against the government during a meeting between US President Joe Biden, Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in front of the Israeli military base HaKirya in central Tel Aviv, Israel on October 18, 2023. Photo by Anadolu Images.
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n a move that offers a glimmer of hope amidst escalating tensions, Hamas released two more hostages on Monday, October 23. However, this still leaves over 200 individuals in captivity, underscoring the grimness of the current hostage situation between Israel and Hamas.
The recent releases were identified as Nurit Cooper, 79, and Yocheved Lifshitz, 85. Hamas’s military wing indicated that the release was facilitated due to “compelling humanitarian” reasons. This move was coordinated with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which took responsibility for safely transporting the hostages out of Gaza.
Daniel Lifshitz, the grandson of one of the hostages, voiced his relief at the news of the release, and he, along with many others, expressed hope that all hostages, especially those from the Nir Oz kibbutz, will be safely returned.
Not all hostages are under Hamas
Since the Hamas attack on October 7, Israel and Hamas have been engaged in a deadly face-off. Israeli airstrikes have, so far, resulted in the deaths of more than 5,700 Palestinians, as per Palestinian Ministry of Health records.
It’s essential to note that not all hostages are under Hamas; some are believed to be with the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, another Gaza-based group.
While Israel is insistent on the unconditional release of all hostages, Hamas’s stand is that civilian hostages will be released only when Israeli airstrikes in Gaza cease. This standoff has garnered international attention, with nations and leaders from across the globe calling for an immediate resolution.
Another significant release took place three days prior when two American citizens, Judith Raanan and her daughter Natalie, were released by Hamas. The Raanans, were visiting relatives in Israel when they were taken captive. The dual U.S.-Israeli citizens were later safely transported out of Gaza by the ICRC.
Israel’s approach to hostages not helpful
A recurring concern is Israel’s approach to this crisis. As they prepare for a possible ground invasion of the Gaza Strip, many fear this could further endanger the hostages’ lives. The U.S. has reportedly advised Israel to hold off on this invasion to allow time for hostage negotiations and humanitarian aid delivery.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is dire. Israel’s measures, including cutting off essential supplies like food, water, fuel, and electricity, have taken a toll on Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. The consistent airstrikes have destroyed entire neighborhoods, making the living conditions in Gaza untenable.
While the release of Cooper and Lifshitz offers some consolation, the fact remains that hundreds are still held captive, waiting for a chance to reunite with their families. At the same time, more than 7,000 Palestinians are held captive by Israel, which Hamas hopes it will be able to exchange them for the hostages.
As this conflict continues, the international community watches closely, hoping for a peaceful resolution that will see the safe return of all hostages and captives and an end to further bloodshed.
Source: Aljazeera, NBC, and CBS.
