WRITTEN: CHIOMA MADONNA NDUKWU
Gaza’s Hamas leadership released two American hostages, Judith Tai Raanan and her daughter Natalie Shoshana Raanan, who were among around 200 individuals captured during attacks in Israel on October 7. The hostages were returned to Israel, and their condition was not disclosed. US President Joe Biden expressed delight at their release.
Hamas, in collaboration with Qatar and Egypt, worked to secure the release of these “civilian” hostages and hinted at the possibility of further releases. The hostages were greeted by an Israeli representative at the Gaza border and then taken to a military facility in central Israel where their families awaited them. The American mother and daughter were seized near the Israel-Gaza border while on vacation in Israel. Families of the hostages had initiated a global campaign for their release. Hamas stated that the release was for humanitarian reasons following interventions by Qatar and Egypt. No specific demands were disclosed. Israel reported that 203 individuals, including Israelis, dual citizens, and foreigners, were taken by Hamas militants during the attacks, resulting in at least 1,400 casualties, mainly civilians.
In response, Israel launched a bombing campaign on the Gaza Strip, resulting in a reported minimum of 4,137 deaths, mostly civilians, according to the Hamas administration. The hostages have become a focal point in Israel, with the government committed to locating those missing and bringing back the kidnapped. The International Committee of the Red Cross facilitated the transportation of the liberated Americans to Israel, offering hope for the families of other captives. This release occurred shortly after Biden’s solidarity visit to Israel. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for additional releases promptly and unconditionally. Qatar played a mediating role between Hamas and the United States. The Israeli military stated that the majority of those taken to Gaza were still alive, including minors and older individuals.
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