In a recent development following the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the release of two US citizens previously held hostage by Hamas. The duo, identified as Judith Tai Raanan and her 17-year-old daughter, Natali Raanan, from Chicago, were reported to be in the hands of Israeli troops, as per The Times of Israel.
Expressing strong criticism, IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari condemned the Hamas terror group for persisting in holding approximately 200 other hostages. He emphasized, “Hamas presents itself to the world at this hour as one who releases hostages for humanitarian reasons, but in reality, we are talking about a murderous terror group, which at this hour is holding babies, children, women, and the elderly captive.”
According to CNN, the release of the two Americans occurred as part of negotiations involving Qatar and Hamas. The IDF spokesperson confirmed that the duo was handed over at the Gaza border and subsequently transferred to the Red Cross.
Acknowledging the efforts of Qatar, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed gratitude, stating, “I wanna thank the government of Qatar for their very important assistance.” He reassured the families of the hostages, “The entire United States government will work every minute of every day to secure their release to bring their loved ones home.”
The White House, in a statement released on Friday, confirmed the release of the Americans held by Hamas during the recent terrorist assault on Israel. “Our fellow citizens have endured a terrible ordeal these past 14 days, and I am overjoyed that they will soon be reunited with their family,” the statement read.
Furthermore, the IDF spokesperson emphasized that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the remaining hostages, with preparations underway for the next stages of the conflict. “IDF is still preparing for the next stages of the fighting, which is expected to include a major ground offensive. The fighting is likely to last many more weeks,” Hagari added.
The delicate situation continues to evolve as international pressure mounts to ensure the safety and release of all hostages held by Hamas.
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