The terrorist group Hamas released two dozen hostages, including 13 Israelis, 10 Thai citizens, and one Filipino citizen, on the first day of a cease-fire with Israel, with no Americans being released. Red Cross personnel facilitated the release, transporting the hostages from Gaza to Egypt and then to Israel. The Israeli hostages, now accompanied by Israeli Defense Forces Special Forces, are receiving care at various hospitals.
The U.S., despite playing a key role in negotiating the cease-fire, has not seen any of its citizens held by Hamas freed. Approximately 10 Americans are reportedly being held hostage by the terrorist group.
Biden says he does not know the conditions of the American citizens still being held hostage by Hamas terrorists in Gaza pic.twitter.com/TzBmYcxqRv
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) November 24, 2023
The cease-fire agreement stipulates a four-day period during which Hamas will release 50 women and children taken in the October 7 attack on Israel in exchange for 150 Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. The U.S. official expressed satisfaction with the process moving forward and stated, “We are doing all we can, including to secure the release of Americans.” However, there has been no release of American hostages yet, Fox News Digital reports.
Israeli leaders, while agreeing to the cease-fire, have vowed to resume the war once it lifts, emphasizing their commitment to overthrowing the rule of Hamas and ensuring the safe return of all abductees. Foreign Minister Eli Cohen affirmed this stance, stating that Israel will continue its war on Hamas until its goals are achieved.
Hamas is laughing at America. Not 1 American hostage released in the first 25 hostages. Total embarrassment. https://t.co/hxSKG3f8BA
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) November 24, 2023
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in thousands of casualties, with over 1,200 Israelis reported killed by Hamas and nearly 13,000 Palestinians claimed to be killed by Israeli military activities in Gaza. Despite the cease-fire, the situation remains tense, and the international community closely watches developments in the region. The cease-fire is part of a broader agreement involving hostage releases and prisoner exchanges between the two parties.
