On Tuesday, two elderly hostages held by Hamas were airlifted to an Israeli hospital, where they were reunited with their families. Meanwhile, the United States has made a demand that Palestinian militants release 200 other captives before ceasefire negotiations in Gaza can proceed.
The recent conflict began when Hamas militants crossed into Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, causing the death of over 1,400 individuals, primarily civilians, according to Israeli officials. Israel has reported that approximately 1,500 Hamas fighters lost their lives in confrontations leading up to the restoration of control in the affected area.
The Hamas militants also took 222 people hostage, including elderly individuals, young children, and several foreigners, according to Israeli authorities.
In response to the conflict, Israel launched “Operation Swords of Iron,” which involved a blockade of Gaza and continuous airstrikes aimed at Hamas targets to “eliminate Hamas.” Humanitarian groups have expressed concerns over the impact on Palestinian civilians.
The United Nations has called for an “immediate humanitarian ceasefire,” but the U.S. President has emphasized that discussions regarding a ceasefire will only proceed if Hamas releases all the hostages.
As the situation continues, many fear the consequences of a full-scale ground operation in Gaza, including the potential for conflict with Hamas’s allies in the Middle East and the complex network of tunnels and strongholds believed to be used by the group.
In Lebanon, there have been cross-border clashes between Israeli forces and the Iran-backed Hezbollah group, resulting in casualties on both sides. Evacuations are underway in both Lebanon and Israel due to the ongoing conflict.
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