Former US President Barack Obama stated on Monday that some of Israel's measures in its war against Hamas, such as denying food and water to Gaza, could "harden Palestinian attitudes for generations" and reduce international support for Israel. Obama stated in an uncommon statement on a current foreign policy problem that any Israeli military plan that disregards the human cost of the conflict "could ultimately backfire."

Israel-Palestine war: Some Israeli actions in Gaza can weaken international support: Barack Obama

The Israeli Central Bank has lowered its economic forecasts and maintained its focus on propping up the domestic currency, the shekel, by holding interest rates steady. The research division of the bank of Israel revised its gdp growth forecasts for 2023 and 2024 downward on Monday.

Bank of Israel revises economic forecast downward amid conflict

Amid the Gaza War, Israel has called its reserves to defend their homeland. But there's a mounting question: Where is Prime Minister's son? In the midst of this mobilization, Israeli soldiers are seething with anger. The Prime Minister's 32-year-old son remains absent even as countless soldiers rush back home to fight the war. But why is Yair Netanyahu still in the U.S., far from the frontlines? Here's a report.

Gravitas: Israeli PM's Son Absence Amid Gaza War Mobilization Sparks Outrage

Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy stated that his nation's goal is to "totally destroy the military and governing capabilities" of Hamas and that military action within the Gaza Strip will occur "at the time of our choosing." The world and the west Asian nation were stunned by the terror attack carried out by Hamas on October 7, in which over 200 Israelis were taken captive and 1400 Israelis died. "We are going to destroy Hamas, we are going to enter the Gaza Strip and totally demolish its military terrorist and governing structure inside the Gaza Strip," Levy declared in an interview with our diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal.

'Will completely destroy Hamas', Israeli govt spokesperson Eylon Levy in a conversation with WION

On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron traveled to Tel Aviv to declare his nation's 'full solidarity' with Israel. Following that incident, Macron was scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to convey France's "complete solidarity" with Israel, according to the French presidency.

Israel-Palestine war: France President Macron says, 'Terrorism a common enemy for Israel & France'

The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.

When they launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas terrorists captured more than 200 people.

"If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the Israeli military said in the leaflet.

"The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality."

Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages

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Phone numbers were provided in the leaflet to call with information.

AFP reported that people taking refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza tore the leaflets after they were dropped by Israeli planes.

"We don't care, do whatever you want. All of us in Gaza are telling you, we are resisting, from east to west," said a Palestinian man as quoted by AFP.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/been-through-hell-survivor-recounts-her-horrific-experience-as-hamas-captive-650680">'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive</a>

Israel has massed forces near the border with the Gaza strip and there is speculation of a ground assault with an aim to free hostages and tackle Hamas.

Israel says that foreign nationals are among the hostages who have been taken to Gaza. The exact whereabouts of those abducted are not known.

<h2>Two hostages freed</h2>

Hamas on Tuesday, freed two elderly hostages. Yocheved Lifshitz (85) and Nurit Cooper (79) were among the people abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7.

Lifshitz, seated in a wheelchair, interacted with media after her release.

While recounting her ordeal, she said that she 'went through hell'

She described how the terrorists "went on a rampage in our kibbutz, kidnapped me, lay me over a motorcycle... and sped off with me through the ploughed fields". She added that the fighters beat her on the way.

"...they didn't break my ribs but hurt me very much," she said.

She however said that during captivity, "they treated us well" adding that her captors were courteous and a doctor visited every two to three days.

Lifshitz's husband is still in captivity.

"They had everything that men and women needed including shampoo," she told journalists. "We ate the same food they did -- pitas with cream cheese, melted cheese, cucumbers."

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information.

The Israeli military on Tuesday (October 24) dropped leaflets in Gaza urging Palestinians to provide information about hostages being held by Hamas. The military has offered protection and a reward to those who give information. When they launched cross-border raid into Israel in October 7, the Hamas terrorists captured more than 200 people. "If your will is to live in peace and to have a better future for your children, do the humanitarian deed immediately and share verified and valuable information about hostages being held in your area," the Israeli military said in the leaflet. "The Israeli military assures you that it will invest maximum effort in providing security for you and your home, and you will receive a financial reward. We guarantee you complete confidentiality." Watch | Israel-Palestine war | Pressure grows on Israel to negotiate release of Gaza hostages × Phone numbers were provided in the leaflet to call with information. AFP reported that people taking refuge at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in southern Gaza tore the leaflets after they were dropped by Israeli planes. "We don't care, do whatever you want. All of us in Gaza are telling you, we are resisting, from east to west," said a Palestinian man as quoted by AFP. Also Read | 'Been through hell': Survivor recounts her horrific experience as Hamas' captive Israel has massed forces near the border with the Gaza strip and there is speculation of a ground assault with an aim to free hostages and tackle Hamas. Israel says that foreign nationals are among the hostages who have been taken to Gaza. The exact whereabouts of those abducted are not known. Two hostages freed Hamas on Tuesday, freed two elderly hostages. Yocheved Lifshitz (85) and Nurit Cooper (79) were among the people abducted by Hamas terrorists on October 7. Lifshitz, seated in a wheelchair, interacted with media after her release. While recounting her ordeal, she said that she 'went through hell' She described how the terrorists "went on a rampage in our kibbutz, kidnapped me, lay me over a motorcycle... and sped off with me through the ploughed fields". She added that the fighters beat her on the way. "...they didn't break my ribs but hurt me very much," she said. She however said that during captivity, "they treated us well" adding that her captors were courteous and a doctor visited every two to three days. Lifshitz's husband is still in captivity. "They had everything that men and women needed including shampoo," she told journalists. "We ate the same food they did -- pitas with cream cheese, melted cheese, cucumbers." (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Israel air force drops leaflets in Gaza seeking information on hostages

Israeli aircraft struck a compound beneath a mosque in the occupied West Bank early on Sunday that the military said was being used by militants to organise attacks, and Palestinian medics said at least one person was killed.

Israel-Palestine War: Preparing for unrelenting attacks to dismantle Hamas: Israel military

Two Israeli hostages, Yocheved Lifshitz, 85, and Nurit Cooper, 79, were freed by Hamas. According to Hamas' armed branch, the ladies were freed for "compelling humanitarian" grounds. The two hostages' liberation was confirmed by the ICRC.

Israel-Hamas: Four hostages released by Hamas so far; Can Israel manage to release hostages?

The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for additional similar attacks and respond appropriately, said White House spokesman John Kirby. He also said that the US has sent a “few” military advisors to Israel.

<h2>Attacks on US military bases</h2>

Kirby said there had been an uptick in such attacks over the last week, particularly over the last few days and that the US would not&nbsp;allow its interests in the region to “go unchallenged.”&nbsp;

Washington also raised concerns about an escalation of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. However, the US has rejected calls for a ceasefire saying its ally Israel has a right to self-defence.&nbsp;

“Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said Kirby.&nbsp;

He added, “We know Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here, but we’re not going to allow them to do that.” This comes as there has been an increase in attacks on US forces in the region, particularly since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, at least five rocket and drone attacks targeted three Iraqi military bases where&nbsp;American troops are stationed as part of the international coalition set up to fight the Islamic State group.

On Monday (Oct 23), Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iranian-backed militias, said that its forces used two drones to attack US military bases in Deir el-Zour province and in al-Shaddadi further north.&nbsp;

This was after the group also said that it attacked the al-Tanf garrison near the Jordanian and Iraqi borders which is near the desert Rukban camp home to tens of thousands of Syrians.

“We are deeply concerned about the potential for any significant escalation of these attacks in the days ahead,” said the White House spokesperson.&nbsp;

<h2>US sends ‘few’ military advisors to Israel</h2>

Kirby said that the US has also sent a “few” military advisors to Israel, adding that these officers have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting, and may conduct in the future” and were “over there to share some perspectives.”&nbsp;

A report by the Associated Press said that the Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to help with war planning ahead of their potential ground operation in Gaza.&nbsp;

Among those is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who has previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, a US official told AP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries.

The United States on Monday (Oct 23) accused Iran of “actively facilitating” rocket and drone attacks on its forces in Iraq and Syria. This comes after Iran-backed militias in Iraq claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on US bases in the two countries. President Joe Biden has since directed the Department of Defense to brace for additional similar attacks and respond appropriately, said White House spokesman John Kirby. He also said that the US has sent a “few” military advisors to Israel. Attacks on US military bases Kirby said there had been an uptick in such attacks over the last week, particularly over the last few days and that the US would not allow its interests in the region to “go unchallenged.” Washington also raised concerns about an escalation of the war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. However, the US has rejected calls for a ceasefire saying its ally Israel has a right to self-defence. “Iran continues to support Hamas and Hezbollah, and we know that Iran is closely monitoring these events and, in some cases, actively facilitating these attacks and spurring on others who may want to exploit the conflict for their own good or for that of Iran,” said Kirby. He added, “We know Iran’s goal is to maintain some level of deniability here, but we’re not going to allow them to do that.” This comes as there has been an increase in attacks on US forces in the region, particularly since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7. Earlier this week, at least five rocket and drone attacks targeted three Iraqi military bases where American troops are stationed as part of the international coalition set up to fight the Islamic State group. On Monday (Oct 23), Islamic Resistance in Iraq, an umbrella group of Iranian-backed militias, said that its forces used two drones to attack US military bases in Deir el-Zour province and in al-Shaddadi further north. This was after the group also said that it attacked the al-Tanf garrison near the Jordanian and Iraqi borders which is near the desert Rukban camp home to tens of thousands of Syrians. “We are deeply concerned about the potential for any significant escalation of these attacks in the days ahead,” said the White House spokesperson. US sends ‘few’ military advisors to Israel Kirby said that the US has also sent a “few” military advisors to Israel, adding that these officers have experience in “the sorts of operations that Israel is conducting, and may conduct in the future” and were “over there to share some perspectives.” A report by the Associated Press said that the Pentagon has sent military advisers to Israel to help with war planning ahead of their potential ground operation in Gaza. Among those is Marine Corps Lt. Gen. James Glynn, who has previously helped lead special operations forces against the Islamic State and served in Fallujah, Iraq, during some of the most heated urban combat there, a US official told AP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

White House says Iran ‘actively facilitating’ attacks on US military bases

In the area to encourage peace negotiations and press for a ceasefire is China's special envoy on Middle East affairs. The likelihood of a protracted ground battle in Gaza is "significantly rising," Zhai Jun continues. According to Zhai, China will keep pushing for a two-state solution and provide the Palestinians with necessary humanitarian help via the UN and bilateral channels. Despite its desire to project an image of neutrality as a mediator, China has significant economic interests in the Middle East, particularly with regard to access to gas and oil. China has not denounced Hamas for its horrific act of terrorism against Israel.

Israel-Hamas war: China's Middle East envoy pitches for peace

President Joe Biden declared that until all of the hostages taken by Hamas are freed, he will not support an Israel-Hamas ceasefire. When questioned about the possibility of a ceasefire in exchange for Hamas releasing some 200 prisoners, including Americans, said to be in the Gaza Strip, Biden told reporters, "We should have those hostages released and then we can talk."

Israel-Palestine war: Israel continues ground offensive as US urges it to slowdown

French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.

While speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Macron said the countries fighting the Islamic State "should also fight against Hamas."

"We should build a regional and international coalition to battle against terrorist groups that threaten us all," he said while addressing a joint news conference.

He also highlighted that France and Israel shared terrorism as their "common enemy".

"France is ready for the international coalition against Daesh in which we are taking part for operations in Iraq and Syria to also fight against Hamas," he told reporters, referring to Islamic State.

Macron warned against the potential risks of regional violence while also stating that the battle against Hamas "must be without mercy but not without rules".

Though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not directly comment on Macron's proposal but said the fight was a battle between the "axis of evil" and "the free world".

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-russia-and-china-found-common-cause-in-conflict-between-israel-hamas-649439">Explained | How Russia and China found common cause in conflict between Israel, Hamas</a>

"This battle is not merely our own ... it's everybody's battle," he said.

An Elysee Palace source said Macron's proposal "draws inspiration from the experience of the Global Coalition against Daesh and seeing what aspects can be replicated against Hamas".

<h2>Freeing hostages&nbsp;a priority,&nbsp;says Macron</h2>

Macron, who met the families of French victims at Tel Aviv airport, said freeing nine French hostages was a priority.

"The first objective we should have today is the release of all hostages, without any distinction, because this is an awful crime to play with the lives of children, adults, old people, civilians and soldiers," Macron said after meeting Israel's President Isaac Herzog.&nbsp;

He added that the battle must be fought without "enlarging this conflict."

Macron's visit was aimed at preventing an escalation of the war, freeing hostages, guaranteeing Israel's security and working towards a two-state solution, said the presidential advisers. He will push for a humanitarian ceasefire, they added.

His official visit to Jerusalem comes after the European Union foreign ministers struggled to agree on a call for a "humanitarian pause" in the war on Monday (Oct 23).&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.

French President Emmanuel Macron, on Tuesday (Oct 24), called for the international coalition fighting against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria to be widened in order to combat the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after it launched an unprecedented attack on Israel. While speaking alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem, Macron said the countries fighting the Islamic State "should also fight against Hamas." "We should build a regional and international coalition to battle against terrorist groups that threaten us all," he said while addressing a joint news conference. He also highlighted that France and Israel shared terrorism as their "common enemy". "France is ready for the international coalition against Daesh in which we are taking part for operations in Iraq and Syria to also fight against Hamas," he told reporters, referring to Islamic State. Macron warned against the potential risks of regional violence while also stating that the battle against Hamas "must be without mercy but not without rules". Though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not directly comment on Macron's proposal but said the fight was a battle between the "axis of evil" and "the free world". Also read: Explained | How Russia and China found common cause in conflict between Israel, Hamas "This battle is not merely our own ... it's everybody's battle," he said. An Elysee Palace source said Macron's proposal "draws inspiration from the experience of the Global Coalition against Daesh and seeing what aspects can be replicated against Hamas". Freeing hostages a priority, says Macron Macron, who met the families of French victims at Tel Aviv airport, said freeing nine French hostages was a priority. "The first objective we should have today is the release of all hostages, without any distinction, because this is an awful crime to play with the lives of children, adults, old people, civilians and soldiers," Macron said after meeting Israel's President Isaac Herzog. He added that the battle must be fought without "enlarging this conflict." Macron's visit was aimed at preventing an escalation of the war, freeing hostages, guaranteeing Israel's security and working towards a two-state solution, said the presidential advisers. He will push for a humanitarian ceasefire, they added. His official visit to Jerusalem comes after the European Union foreign ministers struggled to agree on a call for a "humanitarian pause" in the war on Monday (Oct 23). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

French President Emmanuel Macron proposes international coalition against Hamas

Hamas militants killed at least 1,400 people on October 7 - in which most of them were civilians who were shot or burnt to death on the first day of the raid. The militants also took over 200 people hostages.

Israel-Palestine war: Evidence shows civilians killed | Israel goes all out to counter Hamas

The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip. Former&nbsp;hostages Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper have been handed over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) custody, said Prime Minister&nbsp;Benjamin Netanyahu's office in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Two more hostages released</h2>

The two detainees were identified by Hamas as Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz. The step was taken following Egyptian-Qatari mediation and “compelling humanitarian” reasons, said the Hamas spokesperson in a statement.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-dials-american-hostages-released-by-hamas-649777">US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas</a>

Egyptian state media said that the two hostages who were freed by Hamas have arrived at Rafah border crossing. The report also claimed that the release was the result of intense Egyptian efforts.&nbsp;

Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) took to X and said that they “facilitated the release of 2 more hostages” and transported “them out of Gaza this evening”.

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In the image of Al Qassam Brigades releasing 2 Israeli hostages, what attracted attention was the attitude of the hostages. The hostages even waved their hands. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gaza?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gaza</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Palestine?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Palestine</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Israel</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TelAviv?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TelAviv</a> <a href="https://t.co/sP0SZQFUgs">pic.twitter.com/sP0SZQFUgs</a>
— E. E. 🇹🇷 (@muhendisev) <a href="https://twitter.com/muhendisev/status/1716572047906668817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In a statement the spokesperson for Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas said: "We in the Al-Qassam Brigades, through Egyptian-Qatari mediation, released the two detainees, Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz, knowing that the enemy has refused since last Friday to accept their receipt, and is still neglecting the file of its prisoners. We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and satisfactory reasons, despite the occupation’s crimes. For more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process."

<h2>Israel confirms release</h2>

The militant group had said on Saturday that they wanted to release the same two hostages, but that Israel declined to accept them, according to Times of Israel. Netanyahu’s office, at the time, said it would not respond to Hamas’ “propaganda lies.”

The Israeli PM's office later released a statement confirming that the former hostages were in Israeli custody&nbsp;and are making their way to a hospital in Israel especially set up for them, where they will be reunited with their families.&nbsp;

It also thanked&nbsp;Egypt "for its help" and the Red Cross "for its important life-saving role," adding that the "IDF and&nbsp;the security forces have worked hard in the last few days in all channels to bring about their release and to overcome the many difficulties set by Hamas."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-two-american-hostages-from-gaza-649400">Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza</a>

A report by Israel’s Channel 12 said that the families of 79-year-old Cooper and Lifshitz, 85, have been notified of their release from Hamas captivity, adding that their husbands remain in Gaza.

According to the report, both women were abducted from their homes in Nir Oz kibbutz.&nbsp;

<h2>Four hostages released from Gaza</h2>

Hamas has now released four female hostages from Gaza after the Palestinian militant group, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages.&nbsp;

Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative’s birthday.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip.

The spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades said that the Palestinian militant group released two Israeli hostages, on Monday (Oct 23), who were being held in the Gaza Strip. Former hostages Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper have been handed over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) custody, said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office in a statement. Two more hostages released The two detainees were identified by Hamas as Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz. The step was taken following Egyptian-Qatari mediation and “compelling humanitarian” reasons, said the Hamas spokesperson in a statement. ALSO READ | US President Joe Biden dials American hostages released by Hamas Egyptian state media said that the two hostages who were freed by Hamas have arrived at Rafah border crossing. The report also claimed that the release was the result of intense Egyptian efforts. Additionally, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) took to X and said that they “facilitated the release of 2 more hostages” and transported “them out of Gaza this evening”. In the image of Al Qassam Brigades releasing 2 Israeli hostages, what attracted attention was the attitude of the hostages. The hostages even waved their hands. #Gaza #Palestine #Israel #TelAviv pic.twitter.com/sP0SZQFUgs — E. E. 🇹🇷 (@muhendisev) October 23, 2023 × In a statement the spokesperson for Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas said: "We in the Al-Qassam Brigades, through Egyptian-Qatari mediation, released the two detainees, Nurit Yitzhak and Yochved Lifshitz, knowing that the enemy has refused since last Friday to accept their receipt, and is still neglecting the file of its prisoners. We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and satisfactory reasons, despite the occupation’s crimes. For more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process." Israel confirms release The militant group had said on Saturday that they wanted to release the same two hostages, but that Israel declined to accept them, according to Times of Israel. Netanyahu’s office, at the time, said it would not respond to Hamas’ “propaganda lies.” The Israeli PM's office later released a statement confirming that the former hostages were in Israeli custody and are making their way to a hospital in Israel especially set up for them, where they will be reunited with their families. It also thanked Egypt "for its help" and the Red Cross "for its important life-saving role," adding that the "IDF and the security forces have worked hard in the last few days in all channels to bring about their release and to overcome the many difficulties set by Hamas." ALSO READ | Hamas releases two American hostages from Gaza A report by Israel’s Channel 12 said that the families of 79-year-old Cooper and Lifshitz, 85, have been notified of their release from Hamas captivity, adding that their husbands remain in Gaza. According to the report, both women were abducted from their homes in Nir Oz kibbutz. Four hostages released from Gaza Hamas has now released four female hostages from Gaza after the Palestinian militant group, on Friday (Oct 20), released a statement saying that it had released two American hostages. Judith and Natalie Raanan were taken hostage from Kibbutz Nahal Oz during Hamas’ October 7 attack on southern Israel. The mother-daughter duo lived in Chicago and were visiting Israel to celebrate a relative’s birthday. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas releases two more hostages from Gaza; Israel confirms their arrival

Israeli government spokesman Eylon Levy stated that his nation's goal is to "totally destroy the military and governing capabilities" of Hamas and that military action within the Gaza Strip will occur "at the time of our choosing." The world and the west Asian nation were stunned by the terror attack carried out by Hamas on October 7, in which over 200 Israelis were taken captive and 1400 Israelis died.

Israel govt spokesperson speaks to WION, says 'Israel's mind is on fate of hostages held by Hamas'

Many relatives of hostages taken by Hamas are pleading with the government to scale back the war effort and instead negotiate the release of their loved ones as Israel gets ready to attack the Gaza Strip.

Israel-Palestine war | Can Israel manage to get hostages release?

Israel-Palestine war: Release the hostages then we can talk about ceasefire: Biden tells Hamas

The war is raging between Israel and Hamas and attacks from both sides are intensifying. It's many days since Israel declared war on Hamas after an unprecedented ground air and sea assault by the militants over the weekend. The death toll continues to mount on both sides.

Israel-Palestine War: What happens after Hamas has been neutralized?

Experts say the children of Gaza are showing signs of trauma including bed-wetting, convulsions and aggressive behaviour.

Israel-Hamas War: What we know about the children captivity by Hamas | WION Ground report

France calls for 'humanitarian truce' to allow transfer of aid in Gaza strip | WION Dispatch

Israel-Palestine war | Israel not alone in its fight with Hamas: France President Macron | WION

On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron traveled to Tel Aviv to declare his nation's "full solidarity" with Israel. Following that incident, Macron was scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to convey France's "complete solidarity" with Israel, according to the French presidency.

France President Emanuel Macron in Israel, Macron calls for revival of peace process

Cryptocurrency's role in terrorist financing and funding militant groups has come under renewed scrutiny. It comes following a deadly attack in Israel by Palestinian militant group Hamas. Watch this video for all details.

Israel-Palestine war: What is the role of crypto in terrorist financing?

The war is raging between Israel and Hamas and attacks from both sides are intensifying. It's now many days since Israel declared war on Hamas after an unprecedented ground air and sea assault by the militants over the weekend. The death toll continues to mount on both sides.

Israel-Hamas war: Beijing's diplomatic strategy explained | Israel & China FMs on call | WION

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