The UK government has expressed hope and readiness for the release of British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari, following reports that she is among the three women to be freed under the Gaza ceasefire deal. &nbsp; "The UK government welcomes the reports that British national Emily Damari is on the list of hostages to be released by Hamas today. We stand ready to support her upon her release," the UK foreign office stated.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-are-romi-gonen-emily-damari-doron-steinbrecher-first-israeli-hostages-set-to-be-freed-under-gaza-ceasefire-8635098">Who are Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, &amp; Doron Steinbrecher? First Israeli hostages set to be freed under Gaza ceasefire</a>
<h2>Abducted during October 7 attack &nbsp;</h2>
Emily Damari, 28, was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza during the Hamas attack on October 7. According to her mother, Emily was shot in the hand, injured by shrapnel in her leg, blindfolded, and forced into her car, which was then driven to Gaza.
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<h2>Family's emotional wait &nbsp;</h2>
Emily Cohen, a family representative, described the ordeal as "torturous," noting the 471 days since Emily's abduction and the uncertainty surrounding her release. "All Emily's mum wants is to hug her, but she won&rsquo;t believe it until it happens," Cohen remarked, according to BBC.
"Until she's out and Mandy can actually see that she's out. It hasn't happened until it happens. It's not done until it's done. And there's a long road ahead," she added. She also &nbsp;emphasised concerns for other hostages and the need for ongoing humanitarian aid, stating, "They've no idea what condition they are in and there are other hostages who need to be released and need humanitarian aid to be kept alive. It's a long, long road ahead."
(With inputs from agencies)

World | Trending: Emily Damari was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza by Hamas terrorists on Oct 7. Emily was shot in the hand, injured by shrapnel in her leg, blindfolded, and forced into her car, which was then driven to Gaza.

The UK government has expressed hope and readiness for the release of British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari, following reports that she is among the three women to be freed under the Gaza ceasefire deal. "The UK government welcomes the reports that British national Emily Damari is on the list of hostages to be released by Hamas today. We stand ready to support her upon her release," the UK foreign office stated. Also Read | Who are Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, & Doron Steinbrecher? First Israeli hostages set to be freed under Gaza ceasefire Abducted during October 7 attack Emily Damari, 28, was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Aza during the Hamas attack on October 7. According to her mother, Emily was shot in the hand, injured by shrapnel in her leg, blindfolded, and forced into her car, which was then driven to Gaza. Also Read | Separated by LA wildfires, a happy reunion for some pets, owners Family's emotional wait Emily Cohen, a family representative, described the ordeal as "torturous," noting the 471 days since Emily's abduction and the uncertainty surrounding her release. "All Emily's mum wants is to hug her, but she won’t believe it until it happens," Cohen remarked, according to BBC. "Until she's out and Mandy can actually see that she's out. It hasn't happened until it happens. It's not done until it's done. And there's a long road ahead," she added. She also emphasised concerns for other hostages and the need for ongoing humanitarian aid, stating, "They've no idea what condition they are in and there are other hostages who need to be released and need humanitarian aid to be kept alive. It's a long, long road ahead." (With inputs from agencies)

Family of British-Israeli hostage prepares for reunion, ‘won’t believe it until it happens’

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into effect on Sunday at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT). The truce was delayed by approximately three hours, during which Israeli strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 19 Palestinians.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-comes-into-effect-after-hamas-releases-names-of-hostages-8634908">Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Live: Qatar confirms Gaza truce has begun as Hamas names hostages who will be freed</a>
Meet the first three Israeli hostages freed under Gaza ceasefire
<h2>Romi Gonen</h2>
Romi Gonen is one of the three hostages slated for release. Her brother, Shahaf, confirmed the news on Instagram, writing, &ldquo;She is on the list. It&rsquo;s official. Good luck to us all,&rdquo; as reported by the Times of Israel.
Gonen was 23 when Hamas captured her from the Nova Music Festival on 7 October 2023 after being shot by militants. Speaking to her mother during the attack, she said, &ldquo;They shot me, Mom, and I&rsquo;m bleeding. Everyone in the car is bleeding,&rdquo; according to The Jerusalem Post. Three of her friends who were with her that day were killed.
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A previously released hostage informed her family that Gonen was alive but in poor condition. &ldquo;Her hand does not function. Her fingers are barely moving and are changing colours &mdash; and that was 10 weeks ago,&rdquo; her family told the Daily Mail.
<h2>Emily Damari</h2>
Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli, was taken hostage during the 7 October Hamas attack. She was reportedly shot in the hand, blindfolded, and forced into her own car, which was then driven to Gaza, according to Sky News.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-deal-how-netanyahus-desire-to-stay-in-power-shaped-the-truce-and-hostage-release-agreement-with-hamas-8633951">Politics of survival: How Netanyahu's desire to stay in power shaped the Gaza&nbsp;ceasefire&nbsp;deal</a>
Damari was abducted from her apartment in Kfar Aza, along with 37 other residents of the kibbutz. A friend, Bar Kislev, told Israel&rsquo;s Channel 12 that she saw Damari&rsquo;s car being driven around the kibbutz on the morning of the attack, The Jerusalem Post reported.
<h2>Doron Steinbrecher</h2>
Doron Steinbrecher, an Israeli-Romanian dual national, turned 31 while in captivity. She was taken from Kfar Aza on 7 October 2023 while hiding under her bed, according to The Jerusalem Post. Her family has alleged that Hamas has not been providing her with the necessary medication and has raised the issue with the Red Cross.
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Steinbrecher&rsquo;s last message to her family was a voice note saying, &ldquo;They&rsquo;ve got me, they&rsquo;ve got me,&rdquo; her mother shared with the Financial Times. In January 2024, after 107 days in captivity, Hamas released a video showing Steinbrecher and two other hostages speaking from inside tunnels.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: Israel confirmed it had received the names of three hostages were released on the first day of the agreement’s implementation. This phase of the ceasefire is set to last 42 days.

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into effect on Sunday at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT). The truce was delayed by approximately three hours, during which Israeli strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 19 Palestinians. Also read: Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Live: Qatar confirms Gaza truce has begun as Hamas names hostages who will be freed Meet the first three Israeli hostages freed under Gaza ceasefire Romi Gonen Romi Gonen is one of the three hostages slated for release. Her brother, Shahaf, confirmed the news on Instagram, writing, “She is on the list. It’s official. Good luck to us all,” as reported by the Times of Israel. Gonen was 23 when Hamas captured her from the Nova Music Festival on 7 October 2023 after being shot by militants. Speaking to her mother during the attack, she said, “They shot me, Mom, and I’m bleeding. Everyone in the car is bleeding,” according to The Jerusalem Post. Three of her friends who were with her that day were killed. Also read: Israeli far-right minister Ben Gvir's party quits ruling coalition A previously released hostage informed her family that Gonen was alive but in poor condition. “Her hand does not function. Her fingers are barely moving and are changing colours — and that was 10 weeks ago,” her family told the Daily Mail. Emily Damari Emily Damari, a 28-year-old British-Israeli, was taken hostage during the 7 October Hamas attack. She was reportedly shot in the hand, blindfolded, and forced into her own car, which was then driven to Gaza, according to Sky News. Also read: Politics of survival: How Netanyahu's desire to stay in power shaped the Gaza ceasefire deal Damari was abducted from her apartment in Kfar Aza, along with 37 other residents of the kibbutz. A friend, Bar Kislev, told Israel’s Channel 12 that she saw Damari’s car being driven around the kibbutz on the morning of the attack, The Jerusalem Post reported. Doron Steinbrecher Doron Steinbrecher, an Israeli-Romanian dual national, turned 31 while in captivity. She was taken from Kfar Aza on 7 October 2023 while hiding under her bed, according to The Jerusalem Post. Her family has alleged that Hamas has not been providing her with the necessary medication and has raised the issue with the Red Cross. Also read: Gaza ceasefire comes into effect after brief delay as Hamas releases list of hostages Steinbrecher’s last message to her family was a voice note saying, “They’ve got me, they’ve got me,” her mother shared with the Financial Times. In January 2024, after 107 days in captivity, Hamas released a video showing Steinbrecher and two other hostages speaking from inside tunnels. (With inputs from agencies)

Who are Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, & Doron Steinbrecher? First Israeli hostages freed under Gaza ceasefire

Hours before a ceasefire deal is set to take effect, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel has not yet received a list of hostages that Hamas plans to release, potentially delaying the agreement.
&ldquo;We will not move forward with the outline until we receive a list of the hostages to be freed, as agreed,&rdquo; Netanyahu said in a statement issued by his office.
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He also warned, &ldquo;Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. The sole responsibility lies with Hamas.&rdquo;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m62i0q3v-ghdi1k9d-c8xd955r">
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "We will be unable to move forward with the framework until we receive the list of the hostages who will be released, as was agreed. Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. Hamas is solely responsible."
&mdash; Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraeliPM/status/1880663771255099703?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 18, 2025</a></blockquote>
According to the agreement, Hamas is required to provide the names of the hostages at least 24 hours prior to their release. The release was initially scheduled for 4:00 PM local time.
The ceasefire in Gaza is expected to begin at 8:30 AM Gaza time (6:30 AM GMT) on Sunday, 19 January, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Qatar&rsquo;s foreign ministry. The agreement outlines a three-phase truce, starting with a six-week period during which hostages held by Hamas will be exchanged for prisoners detained in Israel.
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<h2>How many Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners will be freed in the first phase?</h2>
During the initial phase, 33 out of the 98 remaining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-42-day-first-phase">Israeli hostages</a> are set to be released. These include women, children, men over the age of 50, and individuals who are ill or injured, according to Reuters.
The Jerusalem Post, citing Army Radio, reported on Saturday that 25 of the 33 hostages expected to be freed in this phase are believed to still be alive.
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In exchange, Israel will release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Among those to be freed are 737 men, women, and teenagers, some of whom are affiliated with Palestinian militant groups and were convicted of attacks resulting in the deaths of numerous Israelis. The list also includes Palestinians from Gaza detained since the war began.
Details of the prisoners were published by the Israeli justice ministry on Saturday, alongside the ceasefire agreement. The deal specifies that 30 Palestinian prisoners will be released for every Israeli female hostage freed on Sunday.
(With inputs from agencies)

World, Middle East: “We will not move forward with the outline until we receive a list of the hostages to be freed, as agreed,” Netanyahu said in a statement issued by his office.

Hours before a ceasefire deal is set to take effect, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel has not yet received a list of hostages that Hamas plans to release, potentially delaying the agreement. “We will not move forward with the outline until we receive a list of the hostages to be freed, as agreed,” Netanyahu said in a statement issued by his office. Also read: 'When Russians hide, North Koreans shoot': How Pyongyang's troops are reshaping Russia-Ukraine war He also warned, “Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. The sole responsibility lies with Hamas.” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu: "We will be unable to move forward with the framework until we receive the list of the hostages who will be released, as was agreed. Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. Hamas is solely responsible." — Prime Minister of Israel (@IsraeliPM) January 18, 2025 According to the agreement, Hamas is required to provide the names of the hostages at least 24 hours prior to their release. The release was initially scheduled for 4:00 PM local time. The ceasefire in Gaza is expected to begin at 8:30 AM Gaza time (6:30 AM GMT) on Sunday, 19 January, as confirmed by a spokesperson for Qatar’s foreign ministry. The agreement outlines a three-phase truce, starting with a six-week period during which hostages held by Hamas will be exchanged for prisoners detained in Israel. Also read: From Zakaria Zubeidi to Ahmed Barghouti: 5 Prominent names among 737 Palestinian prisoners to be freed by Israel How many Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners will be freed in the first phase? During the initial phase, 33 out of the 98 remaining Israeli hostages are set to be released. These include women, children, men over the age of 50, and individuals who are ill or injured, according to Reuters. The Jerusalem Post, citing Army Radio, reported on Saturday that 25 of the 33 hostages expected to be freed in this phase are believed to still be alive. Also read: Gaza truce to take effect Sunday at 0630 GMT; Israel approves list of 737 detainees to be released In exchange, Israel will release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Among those to be freed are 737 men, women, and teenagers, some of whom are affiliated with Palestinian militant groups and were convicted of attacks resulting in the deaths of numerous Israelis. The list also includes Palestinians from Gaza detained since the war began. Details of the prisoners were published by the Israeli justice ministry on Saturday, alongside the ceasefire agreement. The deal specifies that 30 Palestinian prisoners will be released for every Israeli female hostage freed on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Hours before Gaza ceasefire, Netanyahu warns Hamas 'won't move forward' until Israel receives hostage list

The Israeli military said on Wednesday that its troops had recovered the body of a hostage in Gaza and brought it back to Israel following a "complex and difficult operation".
In a statement, the military said: "The troops located and recovered the body of hostage Youssef al-Zayadna from an underground tunnel in the Rafah area of the Gaza Strip and returned his body to Israel."
Earlier on Wednesday, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz had announced that the remains of Zayadna's son, Hamza, had also been brought to Israel.
The military clarified that the son's body had not been recovered, although "findings were located related to Hamza... which raise serious concerns for his life".
Military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani said in an online briefing that troops carried out what he described as a "complex and difficult special operation" to retrieve the body.
The father's body was "brought to Israel for an identification process, after which we confirmed his identity and notified his family. We are currently investigating the circumstances of his death," Shoshani said.
The Arab Bedouin father and son were seized by Palestinian militants from Kibbutz Holit near the Gaza border during the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023.
Kidnapped with them were Hamza's sister and brother, who were released during a week-long truce in November 2023.&nbsp;
During their attack, the Hamas terrorists took 251 people hostage. Of those, 95 remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military says are dead.
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The 2023 attack resulted in the deaths of 1,208 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to Israeli official figures.
Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed 45,936 people in Gaza, the majority of them civilians, according to figures from the Hamas-run territory's health ministry, which the United Nations considers reliable.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Middle East: Earlier on Wednesday, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz had announced that the remains of Zayadna's son, Hamza, had also been brought to Israel.

The Israeli military said on Wednesday that its troops had recovered the body of a hostage in Gaza and brought it back to Israel following a "complex and difficult operation". In a statement, the military said: "The troops located and recovered the body of hostage Youssef al-Zayadna from an underground tunnel in the Rafah area of the Gaza Strip and returned his body to Israel." Earlier on Wednesday, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz had announced that the remains of Zayadna's son, Hamza, had also been brought to Israel. The military clarified that the son's body had not been recovered, although "findings were located related to Hamza... which raise serious concerns for his life". Military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani said in an online briefing that troops carried out what he described as a "complex and difficult special operation" to retrieve the body. The father's body was "brought to Israel for an identification process, after which we confirmed his identity and notified his family. We are currently investigating the circumstances of his death," Shoshani said. The Arab Bedouin father and son were seized by Palestinian militants from Kibbutz Holit near the Gaza border during the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023. Kidnapped with them were Hamza's sister and brother, who were released during a week-long truce in November 2023. During their attack, the Hamas terrorists took 251 people hostage. Of those, 95 remain in Gaza, including 34 the Israeli military says are dead. Also read: Trump slams Biden in first remarks after Congress certifies election win. Know what he said The 2023 attack resulted in the deaths of 1,208 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to Israeli official figures. Israel's retaliatory offensive has killed 45,936 people in Gaza, the majority of them civilians, according to figures from the Hamas-run territory's health ministry, which the United Nations considers reliable. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

IDF says body of one hostage retrieved from Gaza

Jerusalem, Israel
A former Israeli hostage held by Hamas died due to illness on Tuesday (Dec 24). She was the first to lose her life after being released alongside several others who returned after a hostage exchange deal earlier.
Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
According to news agency AFP, an Israeli government official has said that Katzir has been recognised as a victim of the October attack by Hamas.
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“Hanna Katzir, 76, kidnapped from her home in Nir Oz during the massacre on October 7th and released during the ceasefire on November 24, 2023, died on December 24, 2024, after a complex medical situation since her release. She has been recognised as a victim of terrorism,” the official said in a statement.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences to Katzir family. He also said in a statement that he would “work tirelessly to bring all of our hostages home.”
<h2>Who was Hanna Katzir?</h2>
Hanna Katzir, a 76-year-old woman, was one of the hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack in Israel. Earlier, the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad claimed that she had died just before a hostage deal, however, later it was discovered that she was released in November.
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Her husband and son were killed by Hamas in the same attack. While her husband Rami died on the same day in their home, her 47-year-old son, Elad, died in captivity. His body was brought back to Israel in April this year. Karzir was buried on Tuesday (Dec 24) afternoon.
<h2>Israel-Hamas hostage deal</h2>
Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 23) said in parliament that “some progress” had been made in regard to the negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza. This comes two days after the talks towards a ceasefire and hostage release deal by Palestinian militant groups.
The October 7 attack resulted in over 1,200 people being killed and more than 250 taken as hostages, according to the news agency AFP. As per the army, 96 civilians are still held in Gaza, while 34 have died.
(With inputs from agencies)

Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023



Jerusalem, Israel A former Israeli hostage held by Hamas died due to illness on Tuesday (Dec 24). She was the first to lose her life after being released alongside several others who returned after a hostage exchange deal earlier. Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. According to news agency AFP, an Israeli government official has said that Katzir has been recognised as a victim of the October attack by Hamas. Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' “Hanna Katzir, 76, kidnapped from her home in Nir Oz during the massacre on October 7th and released during the ceasefire on November 24, 2023, died on December 24, 2024, after a complex medical situation since her release. She has been recognised as a victim of terrorism,” the official said in a statement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences to Katzir family. He also said in a statement that he would “work tirelessly to bring all of our hostages home.” Who was Hanna Katzir? Hanna Katzir, a 76-year-old woman, was one of the hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack in Israel. Earlier, the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad claimed that she had died just before a hostage deal, however, later it was discovered that she was released in November. Also read | Israel probe finds Hamas 'murdered' hostages in fear of advancing ground troops Her husband and son were killed by Hamas in the same attack. While her husband Rami died on the same day in their home, her 47-year-old son, Elad, died in captivity. His body was brought back to Israel in April this year. Karzir was buried on Tuesday (Dec 24) afternoon. Israel-Hamas hostage deal Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 23) said in parliament that “some progress” had been made in regard to the negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza. This comes two days after the talks towards a ceasefire and hostage release deal by Palestinian militant groups. The October 7 attack resulted in over 1,200 people being killed and more than 250 taken as hostages, according to the news agency AFP. As per the army, 96 civilians are still held in Gaza, while 34 have died. (With inputs from agencies)

Former Israeli hostage held in Gaza dies a year after her release

The Israeli Army has said that its military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said earlier that the hostages had been "executed" with a bullet "to the head".

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<h2>What did the Israeli investigation find?</h2>

An Israeli military investigation into the deaths of the six hostages — identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Ori Danino — revealed that the advancement of Israeli ground forces prompted Hamas to "murder them".

Israeli "ground activities in the area, although gradual and cautious, had a circumstantial influence on the terrorists' decision to murder the six hostages," the army said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 24).

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Why Israel Is Struggling To Counter The Houthis?

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Following the army's statement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged swift action to secure the release of all remaining hostages. They called for a clear agreement ensuring the return of hostages within a set timeframe.

"The time has come to bring back all the hostages. We need a deal that will ensure the return of all hostages within a quick and predetermined timeframe," said the group in a statement.

<h2>Ceasefire negotiations in the works</h2>

Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and the release of hostages continue in Doha, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States.

Israeli negotiators recently returned from Qatar after what Netanyahu’s office described as a "significant" round of talks.&nbsp;

On Monday, Netanyahu also informed parliament that there had been "some progress" in the discussions.

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Hamas and other Palestinian groups have also reported advancements toward a ceasefire.&nbsp;

The war began on October 7, sparked by a Hamas attack on Israel that claimed 1,208 lives and resulted in 251 hostages being taken, 96 of which still remain in captivity in Gaza.

Israeli officials claim that 34 of these hostages are deceased.

The retaliatory Israeli campaign has resulted in over 45,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

The Israeli Army has said that its military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations.

The Israeli Army has said that its military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said earlier that the hostages had been "executed" with a bullet "to the head". Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' What did the Israeli investigation find? An Israeli military investigation into the deaths of the six hostages — identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Ori Danino — revealed that the advancement of Israeli ground forces prompted Hamas to "murder them". Israeli "ground activities in the area, although gradual and cautious, had a circumstantial influence on the terrorists' decision to murder the six hostages," the army said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 24). Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Why Israel Is Struggling To Counter The Houthis? × Following the army's statement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged swift action to secure the release of all remaining hostages. They called for a clear agreement ensuring the return of hostages within a set timeframe. "The time has come to bring back all the hostages. We need a deal that will ensure the return of all hostages within a quick and predetermined timeframe," said the group in a statement. Ceasefire negotiations in the works Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and the release of hostages continue in Doha, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States. Israeli negotiators recently returned from Qatar after what Netanyahu’s office described as a "significant" round of talks. On Monday, Netanyahu also informed parliament that there had been "some progress" in the discussions. Also read | Walmart in hot soup as shirts featuring Hamas and Hezbollah leaders go up for sale Hamas and other Palestinian groups have also reported advancements toward a ceasefire. The war began on October 7, sparked by a Hamas attack on Israel that claimed 1,208 lives and resulted in 251 hostages being taken, 96 of which still remain in captivity in Gaza. Israeli officials claim that 34 of these hostages are deceased. The retaliatory Israeli campaign has resulted in over 45,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

Israel probe finds Hamas 'murdered' hostages in fear of advancing ground troops

Tel Aviv, Israel
The Israeli Army has said that its military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations. 
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said earlier that the hostages had been "executed" with a bullet "to the head".
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-to-target-houthi-leaders-says-will-act-against-them-to-remove-threat-786542">Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat'</a>
<h2>What did the Israeli investigation find?</h2>
An Israeli military investigation into the deaths of the six hostages — identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Ori Danino — revealed that the advancement of Israeli ground forces prompted Hamas to "murder them".
Israeli "ground activities in the area, although gradual and cautious, had a circumstantial influence on the terrorists' decision to murder the six hostages," the army said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 24).
Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Why Israel Is Struggling To Counter The Houthis?
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Following the army's statement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged swift action to secure the release of all remaining hostages. They called for a clear agreement ensuring the return of hostages within a set timeframe.
"The time has come to bring back all the hostages. We need a deal that will ensure the return of all hostages within a quick and predetermined timeframe," said the group in a statement.
<h2>Ceasefire negotiations in the works</h2>
Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and the release of hostages continue in Doha, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States.
Israeli negotiators recently returned from Qatar after what Netanyahu’s office described as a "significant" round of talks. 
On Monday, Netanyahu also informed parliament that there had been "some progress" in the discussions.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/walmart-in-hot-soup-as-shirts-featuring-hamas-and-hezbollah-leaders-go-up-for-sale-786428">Walmart in hot soup as shirts featuring Hamas and Hezbollah leaders go up for sale</a>
Hamas and other Palestinian groups have also reported advancements toward a ceasefire. 
The war began on October 7, sparked by a Hamas attack on Israel that claimed 1,208 lives and resulted in 251 hostages being taken, 96 of which still remain in captivity in Gaza.
Israeli officials claim that 34 of these hostages are deceased.
The retaliatory Israeli campaign has resulted in over 45,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations.
(With inputs from agencies)
Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

An Israeli military investigation into the deaths of six hostages — identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Ori Danino — revealed that the advancement of Israeli ground forces prompted Hamas to "murder them"



Tel Aviv, Israel The Israeli Army has said that its military operations in southern Gaza likely contributed to Hamas' decision to kill six hostages in August. The victims' bodies were discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah during Israeli operations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had said earlier that the hostages had been "executed" with a bullet "to the head". Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' What did the Israeli investigation find? An Israeli military investigation into the deaths of the six hostages — identified as Carmel Gat, Eden Yerushalmi, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Alexander Lobanov, Almog Sarusi and Ori Danino — revealed that the advancement of Israeli ground forces prompted Hamas to "murder them". Israeli "ground activities in the area, although gradual and cautious, had a circumstantial influence on the terrorists' decision to murder the six hostages," the army said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 24). Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Why Israel Is Struggling To Counter The Houthis? × Following the army's statement, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged swift action to secure the release of all remaining hostages. They called for a clear agreement ensuring the return of hostages within a set timeframe. "The time has come to bring back all the hostages. We need a deal that will ensure the return of all hostages within a quick and predetermined timeframe," said the group in a statement. Ceasefire negotiations in the works Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and the release of hostages continue in Doha, mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States. Israeli negotiators recently returned from Qatar after what Netanyahu’s office described as a "significant" round of talks. On Monday, Netanyahu also informed parliament that there had been "some progress" in the discussions. Also read | Walmart in hot soup as shirts featuring Hamas and Hezbollah leaders go up for sale Hamas and other Palestinian groups have also reported advancements toward a ceasefire. The war began on October 7, sparked by a Hamas attack on Israel that claimed 1,208 lives and resulted in 251 hostages being taken, 96 of which still remain in captivity in Gaza. Israeli officials claim that 34 of these hostages are deceased. The retaliatory Israeli campaign has resulted in over 45,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, whose figures are considered reliable by the United Nations. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

A former Israeli hostage held by Hamas died due to illness on Tuesday (Dec 24). She was the first to lose her life after being released alongside&nbsp;several others who returned after a hostage exchange deal earlier.

Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

According to news agency AFP, an Israeli government official has said that Katzir has been recognised as a victim of the October attack by Hamas.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-vows-to-target-houthi-leaders-says-will-act-against-them-to-remove-threat-786542">Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat'</a>

“Hanna Katzir, 76, kidnapped from her home in Nir Oz during the massacre on October 7th and released during the ceasefire on November 24, 2023, died on December 24, 2024, after a complex medical situation since her release. She has been recognised as a victim of terrorism,” the official said in a statement.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences to Katzir family. He also said in a statement that he would “work tirelessly to bring all of our hostages home.”

<h2>Who was Hanna Katzir?</h2>

Hanna Katzir, a 76-year-old woman, was one of the hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack in Israel. Earlier, the Palestinian militant group&nbsp;Islamic Jihad claimed that she had died just before a hostage deal, however, later it was discovered that she was released in November.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-probe-finds-hamas-murdered-hostages-in-fear-of-advancing-ground-troops-786601">Israel probe finds Hamas 'murdered' hostages in fear of advancing ground troops</a>

Her husband and son were killed by Hamas in the same attack. While her husband Rami died on the same day in their home, her 47-year-old son, Elad, died in captivity. His body was brought back to Israel in April this year. Karzir was buried on Tuesday (Dec 24) afternoon.

<h2>Israel-Hamas&nbsp;hostage deal</h2>

Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 23) said in parliament that “some progress” had been made in regard to the negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza. This comes two days after the talks towards a ceasefire and hostage release deal by Palestinian militant groups.

The October 7 attack resulted in over 1,200 people being killed and more than 250&nbsp;taken as hostages, according to the news agency AFP. As per&nbsp;the army, 96 civilians are still held in Gaza, while 34 have died.

(With inputs from agencies)

A former Israeli hostage held by Hamas died due to illness on Tuesday (Dec 24). She was the first to lose her life after being released alongside several others who returned after a hostage exchange deal earlier.

A former Israeli hostage held by Hamas died due to illness on Tuesday (Dec 24). She was the first to lose her life after being released alongside several others who returned after a hostage exchange deal earlier. Nir Oz Kibbutz issued a statement announcing the demise of Hanna Katzir. She and her son, Elad, were taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. According to news agency AFP, an Israeli government official has said that Katzir has been recognised as a victim of the October attack by Hamas. Also read | Israel vows to target Houthi leaders, says 'will act against them to remove threat' “Hanna Katzir, 76, kidnapped from her home in Nir Oz during the massacre on October 7th and released during the ceasefire on November 24, 2023, died on December 24, 2024, after a complex medical situation since her release. She has been recognised as a victim of terrorism,” the official said in a statement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his condolences to Katzir family. He also said in a statement that he would “work tirelessly to bring all of our hostages home.” Who was Hanna Katzir? Hanna Katzir, a 76-year-old woman, was one of the hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack in Israel. Earlier, the Palestinian militant group Islamic Jihad claimed that she had died just before a hostage deal, however, later it was discovered that she was released in November. Also read | Israel probe finds Hamas 'murdered' hostages in fear of advancing ground troops Her husband and son were killed by Hamas in the same attack. While her husband Rami died on the same day in their home, her 47-year-old son, Elad, died in captivity. His body was brought back to Israel in April this year. Karzir was buried on Tuesday (Dec 24) afternoon. Israel-Hamas hostage deal Netanyahu on Monday (Dec 23) said in parliament that “some progress” had been made in regard to the negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza. This comes two days after the talks towards a ceasefire and hostage release deal by Palestinian militant groups. The October 7 attack resulted in over 1,200 people being killed and more than 250 taken as hostages, according to the news agency AFP. As per the army, 96 civilians are still held in Gaza, while 34 have died. (With inputs from agencies)

Islamic Jihad militant group released a video of Israeli hostage Sasha Trufanov on Wednesday (Nov 13), marking the third video released by the Palestinian militants.&nbsp;

In the video, Trufanov was seen speaking about Israeli military operations in Lebanon. He also said that he and the other hostages were running out of food and hygiene products.&nbsp;

The hostage also called on Israelis to increase pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to secure the release of hostages.

In the shared video, Trufanov said that he is 28 years old, however, the video was released two days after he turned 29.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-gaza-aid-efforts-in-right-direction-says-us-but-urges-further-action-775661">Also read:&nbsp;Israel's Gaza aid efforts in 'right direction,' says US, but urges further action</a>

Trufanov is an engineer employed at Annapurna Labs, an Israeli microelectronics company owned by Amazon.&nbsp;

Earlier also, the Palestinian militant groups shared similar videos of hostages, which have been labelled as deplorable psychological violence by Israel.&nbsp;

Trufanov was taken hostage along with three other members of his family, including his grandmother Irena Tati, mother Yelena, and his girlfriend Sapir Cohen, from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 Hamas attack, The Times of Israel reported.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: Has Israel Missed U.S.' Gaza Aid Deadline?

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However, his mother and Tati were released by Hamas on November 29 at the request of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Later Cohen was also released on November 30 as part of a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.&nbsp;

Trufanov and Cohen recently moved in together when the Gaza border communities were attacked by Hamas militants.&nbsp;

Last month, Hamas said Trufanov and another hostage with Russian citizenship, Maxim Herkin, would be among the first to be released during the hostage deal.

Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos.

(With inputs from agencies)

Islamic Jihad militant group released a video of Israeli hostage Sasha Trufanov on Wednesday (Nov 13), marking the third video released by the Palestinian militants.

Islamic Jihad militant group released a video of Israeli hostage Sasha Trufanov on Wednesday (Nov 13), marking the third video released by the Palestinian militants. In the video, Trufanov was seen speaking about Israeli military operations in Lebanon. He also said that he and the other hostages were running out of food and hygiene products. The hostage also called on Israelis to increase pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government to secure the release of hostages. In the shared video, Trufanov said that he is 28 years old, however, the video was released two days after he turned 29. Also read: Israel's Gaza aid efforts in 'right direction,' says US, but urges further action Trufanov is an engineer employed at Annapurna Labs, an Israeli microelectronics company owned by Amazon. Earlier also, the Palestinian militant groups shared similar videos of hostages, which have been labelled as deplorable psychological violence by Israel. Trufanov was taken hostage along with three other members of his family, including his grandmother Irena Tati, mother Yelena, and his girlfriend Sapir Cohen, from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 Hamas attack, The Times of Israel reported. Watch | Israel-Hamas War: Has Israel Missed U.S.' Gaza Aid Deadline? × However, his mother and Tati were released by Hamas on November 29 at the request of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Later Cohen was also released on November 30 as part of a temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Trufanov and Cohen recently moved in together when the Gaza border communities were attacked by Hamas militants. Last month, Hamas said Trufanov and another hostage with Russian citizenship, Maxim Herkin, would be among the first to be released during the hostage deal. Disclaimer: WION takes the utmost care to accurately and responsibly report conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, Syria, Iraq, and non-state actors like the Islamic State, among others. In this context, claims and counterclaims are being made online and offline. WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos, and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli hostage calls for pressure on Netanyahu government in video shared by Hamas ally

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader, as per reports may have given his men the order to kill all Oct 7 Israeli hostages in the event of his death, warned Israel's leading hostage negotiator Gershon Baskin.

In a conversation with The Telegraph, Baskin — who in 2011 saw the release of Sinwar along with 1,026 other Palestinian prisoners in exchange for kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shilat — warned "It is a moment of either opportunity or a moment of doom".

<h2 bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:135,&quot;w&quot;:723,&quot;h&quot;:26,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1821}">'Opportunity or doom'</h2>

The hostage negotiator explained that Sinwar's death could be a "moment of doom," because there were "rumours that Sinwar instructed people holding hostages that, should he be killed, they should kill their hostages."

Also read |&nbsp;<a bis_size="{&quot;x&quot;:8,&quot;y&quot;:247,&quot;w&quot;:675,&quot;h&quot;:34,&quot;abs_x&quot;:41,&quot;abs_y&quot;:1933}" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-israel-confirms-death-of-nasrallahs-heir-apparent-sayyed-hashem-safieddine-769875">West Asia crisis: Israel confirms death of Nasrallah's heir apparent Sayyed Hashem Safieddine</a>

Baskin said that while it was not possible to confirm or deny the rumour, it should be taken "seriously" given that the group had no qualms about executing six hostages. In late August, the six hostages were killed execution-style after the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) closed in on the tunnel where they were being held.

"We saw the six hostages killed when Israel was entering the tunnel. That could be the case now. We just don't know," he stated.

Sinwar was killed on Oct 16 (last week) and at the time of his elimination, Hamas still had 101 Israeli hostages in captivity. Of these, at least 60 are believed to still be alive.

After Sinwar's killing, the Hamas fighters, as per the report, are being led by his brother Muhammad, which further complicates the matter. &nbsp;

According to the hostage negotiator, this could also be a "moment of opportunity" for Israel.

The nation in the absence of Sinwar's leadership "should be issuing a very clear call that anyone who’s holding a hostage that releases them will be given free passage for themselves and their family out of Gaza to another country, as well as a lot of money."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-takes-sole-responsibility-for-targeting-netanyahus-residence-says-there-would-be-no-negotiations-769842">Hezbollah takes ‘sole responsibility’ for targeting Netanyahu’s residence; says there would be no negotiations</a>

"In order to encourage them to do that, Israel should also be reaching out to Egypt and Qatar and tell them to renew the negotiations quickly, not on the deal that’s been negotiated without success for almost four months, but on a deal that would bring the hostages home quicker and would obviously require Israel to end the war."

However, he added that this "unfortunately," won't happen "unless president [Joe] Biden weighs in very heavily and makes sure that Netanyahu agrees to end the war, because, without that, Netanyahu won't end the war."

Baskin expressed his confidence that the US had the necessary "leverage" to force a ceasefire but added sceptically, "the question is if they're willing to use it".

(With inputs from agencies)

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader, as per reports may have given his men the order to kill all Oct 7 Israeli hostages in the event of his death, warned Israel's leading hostage negotiator Gershon Baskin.

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader, as per reports may have given his men the order to kill all Oct 7 Israeli hostages in the event of his death, warned Israel's leading hostage negotiator Gershon Baskin. In a conversation with The Telegraph, Baskin — who in 2011 saw the release of Sinwar along with 1,026 other Palestinian prisoners in exchange for kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shilat — warned "It is a moment of either opportunity or a moment of doom". 'Opportunity or doom' The hostage negotiator explained that Sinwar's death could be a "moment of doom," because there were "rumours that Sinwar instructed people holding hostages that, should he be killed, they should kill their hostages." Also read | West Asia crisis: Israel confirms death of Nasrallah's heir apparent Sayyed Hashem Safieddine Baskin said that while it was not possible to confirm or deny the rumour, it should be taken "seriously" given that the group had no qualms about executing six hostages. In late August, the six hostages were killed execution-style after the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) closed in on the tunnel where they were being held. "We saw the six hostages killed when Israel was entering the tunnel. That could be the case now. We just don't know," he stated. Sinwar was killed on Oct 16 (last week) and at the time of his elimination, Hamas still had 101 Israeli hostages in captivity. Of these, at least 60 are believed to still be alive. After Sinwar's killing, the Hamas fighters, as per the report, are being led by his brother Muhammad, which further complicates the matter. According to the hostage negotiator, this could also be a "moment of opportunity" for Israel. The nation in the absence of Sinwar's leadership "should be issuing a very clear call that anyone who’s holding a hostage that releases them will be given free passage for themselves and their family out of Gaza to another country, as well as a lot of money." Also read | Hezbollah takes ‘sole responsibility’ for targeting Netanyahu’s residence; says there would be no negotiations "In order to encourage them to do that, Israel should also be reaching out to Egypt and Qatar and tell them to renew the negotiations quickly, not on the deal that’s been negotiated without success for almost four months, but on a deal that would bring the hostages home quicker and would obviously require Israel to end the war." However, he added that this "unfortunately," won't happen "unless president [Joe] Biden weighs in very heavily and makes sure that Netanyahu agrees to end the war, because, without that, Netanyahu won't end the war." Baskin expressed his confidence that the US had the necessary "leverage" to force a ceasefire but added sceptically, "the question is if they're willing to use it". (With inputs from agencies)

Did Sinwar order Hamas to kill all hostages in case of his death? Israel's top hostage negotiator said this...

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was left red-faced after he made an unfortunate gaffe during a speech at Labour Party's conference on Tuesday (Sep 24). Starmer mistakenly called for the return of "sausages" instead of the hostages, currently in Hamas captivity in the Gaza Strip since October 7 last year.&nbsp;

Starmer was calling for a de-escalation of the situation between Israel and Lebanon, as well as a cease-fire in Gaza when he made the slip.&nbsp;

"I call again for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, the return of the sausages — the hostages — and a recommitment to the two-state solution: a recognized Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel," he said, while quickly recovering from his mistake.&nbsp;

The video of the speech quickly went viral on social media with netizens having a light laugh at Starmer's expense.&nbsp;

One user said, "This has to be his wurst speech", while another added: "I mean that was a bad slip up, but when he started going on about a two steak solution I'm pretty sure he was just hungry."

A third commented: "This maybe a Freudian slip, but it accurately reflects how the Starmer government and Israel are treating the conflict."

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Oops! British Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KeirStarmer?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KeirStarmer</a> mixes up “sausages” and “hostages” in a speech about Gaza, then corrects himself 
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-keir-starmers-wife-attended-two-taylor-swift-concerts-without-paying-a-penny-759730">Also read |&nbsp;British PM Keir Starmer's wife attended two Taylor Swift concerts without paying a penny</a>

Notably, during the conference in Liverpool, Starmer was also heckled by an audience member who shouted about Gaza.

"This guy's obviously got a pass from the 2019 conference. We've changed the party," Starmer joked in response, Reuters reported. "While he's been protesting, we've been changing the party. That's why we've got a Labour government."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-pm-keir-starmer-addresses-labour-party-conference-761620">Watch |&nbsp;UK PM Keir Starmer Addresses Labour Party Conference</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Israel and Hamas</h2>

Israel and Hamas have been at loggerheads over the fine print of the hostage-truce deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to keep his troops in the Philadelphi Corridor&nbsp;(a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt) under the deal but Hamas has been reluctant to sign such a proposal.&nbsp;

Earlier this month,&nbsp;bodies of six hostages were recovered from a tunnel in the Gazan city of Rafah.&nbsp;The hostages were killed before they could be rescued,&nbsp;according to the Israeli military.&nbsp;

Hersh Goldberg-Polin (23),&nbsp;Ori Danino (25), Eden Yerushalmi (24), Almog Sarusi (27), Alexander Lobanov (33) and Carmel Gat (40) were&nbsp;identified as the hostages killed by Hamas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was left red-faced after he made an unfortunate gaffe during a speech at Labour Party's conference on Tuesday (Sep 24). Starmer mistakenly called for the return of "sausages" instead of the hostages, currently in Hamas captivity in the Gaza Strip since October 7 last year.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was left red-faced after he made an unfortunate gaffe during a speech at Labour Party's conference on Tuesday (Sep 24). Starmer mistakenly called for the return of "sausages" instead of the hostages, currently in Hamas captivity in the Gaza Strip since October 7 last year. Starmer was calling for a de-escalation of the situation between Israel and Lebanon, as well as a cease-fire in Gaza when he made the slip. "I call again for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, the return of the sausages — the hostages — and a recommitment to the two-state solution: a recognized Palestinian state alongside a safe and secure Israel," he said, while quickly recovering from his mistake. The video of the speech quickly went viral on social media with netizens having a light laugh at Starmer's expense. One user said, "This has to be his wurst speech", while another added: "I mean that was a bad slip up, but when he started going on about a two steak solution I'm pretty sure he was just hungry." A third commented: "This maybe a Freudian slip, but it accurately reflects how the Starmer government and Israel are treating the conflict." Oops! British Prime Minister #KeirStarmer mixes up “sausages” and “hostages” in a speech about Gaza, then corrects himself . . . .#IsraelHamasWar #Gaza #Israel #UK pic.twitter.com/vsrHnXaBkh — WION (@WIONews) September 25, 2024 × Also read | British PM Keir Starmer's wife attended two Taylor Swift concerts without paying a penny Notably, during the conference in Liverpool, Starmer was also heckled by an audience member who shouted about Gaza. "This guy's obviously got a pass from the 2019 conference. We've changed the party," Starmer joked in response, Reuters reported. "While he's been protesting, we've been changing the party. That's why we've got a Labour government." Watch | UK PM Keir Starmer Addresses Labour Party Conference × Israel and Hamas Israel and Hamas have been at loggerheads over the fine print of the hostage-truce deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to keep his troops in the Philadelphi Corridor (a narrow 14.5-km-long stretch of land along Gaza's southern border with Egypt) under the deal but Hamas has been reluctant to sign such a proposal. Earlier this month, bodies of six hostages were recovered from a tunnel in the Gazan city of Rafah. The hostages were killed before they could be rescued, according to the Israeli military. Hersh Goldberg-Polin (23), Ori Danino (25), Eden Yerushalmi (24), Almog Sarusi (27), Alexander Lobanov (33) and Carmel Gat (40) were identified as the hostages killed by Hamas. (With inputs from agencies)

British PM Keir Starmer's latest gaffe, calls for 'return of sausages' from Hamas captivity - WATCH

Tim Walz has come under heavy scrutiny after a video went viral on social media, showing the Democrat vice presidential candidate making a swift dash for the exit when quizzed about the discovery of six Israeli hostages killed in the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;

The Minnesota governor was posed the question at his home state's state fair in St. Paul, hours after the bodies had been discovered.&nbsp;

"What's your reaction to the six hostages being found in Gaza?," the Democrat leader was asked as he thanked everybody and left the scene.&nbsp;

Although it is difficult to ascertain from the footage if Walz heard the question but as soon as it was asked, he left the gathering.&nbsp;

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Reporter: "What's your reaction to the six hostages being found in Gaza?" 
 
Walz: Goodbye 
<a href="https://t.co/ceIHYU1QMw">pic.twitter.com/ceIHYU1QMw</a>
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) <a href="https://twitter.com/greg_price11/status/1830309290101686695?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The netizens were surprised by Walz's reaction and questioned him for not condemning the killings.&nbsp;

"This is one of the worst "pretend like he didn't hear the question" acting jobs I've seen in recent years," said one user, while another added: "He’s following the example set by Biden and Kamala. Lay low and don’t answer any questions."

A third commented: "That is who he is, he turns his back and walks away. Just like he did when he was in service. How can people not see this?"

&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

As the controversy snowballed, Walz's campaign issued a statement, late on Sunday (Sep 1), condemning Hamas as a "brutal terrorist organisation".&nbsp;

"The anguish of losing a child is something no family should have to endure. Gwen and I send our deepest condolences to the Goldberg-Polin family, after Hamas' murder of their son Hersh," read&nbsp;a post on Walz's X (formerly Twitter)&nbsp;account.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-massive-protests-hit-israel-after-six-hostages-killed-in-gaza-755212">Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Massive protests hit Israel after six hostages killed in Gaza</a>

&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in Gaza?</h2>

The bodies of six hostages were recovered from a tunnel in the Gazan city of Rafah on Sunday. The hostages were killed before they could be rescued,&nbsp;according to the Israeli military.&nbsp;

Hersh Goldberg-Polin (23),&nbsp;Ori Danino (25), Eden Yerushalmi (24), Almog Sarusi (27), Alexander Lobanov (33) and Carmel Gat (40) have been identified as the hostages killed by Hamas.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blood-on-their-hands-donald-trump-blames-crooked-biden-comrade-harris-for-gaza-hostage-killings-755205">Also read |&nbsp;'Blood on their hands': Donald Trump blames 'crooked' Biden, 'comrade' Harris for Gaza hostage killings</a>

Notably,&nbsp;Israeli-American hostage Goldberg-Polin's parents had made an appearance at the Democratic National Convention (DNC), held in Chicago last week.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agncies)&nbsp;

Tim Walz has come under heavy scrutiny after a video went viral on social media, showing the Democrat vice presidential candidate making a swift dash for the exit when quizzed about the discovery of six Israeli hostages killed in the Gaza Strip.

Tim Walz has come under heavy scrutiny after a video went viral on social media, showing the Democrat vice presidential candidate making a swift dash for the exit when quizzed about the discovery of six Israeli hostages killed in the Gaza Strip. The Minnesota governor was posed the question at his home state's state fair in St. Paul, hours after the bodies had been discovered. "What's your reaction to the six hostages being found in Gaza?," the Democrat leader was asked as he thanked everybody and left the scene. Although it is difficult to ascertain from the footage if Walz heard the question but as soon as it was asked, he left the gathering. Reporter: "What's your reaction to the six hostages being found in Gaza?" Walz: Goodbye pic.twitter.com/ceIHYU1QMw — Greg Price (@greg_price11) September 1, 2024 × The netizens were surprised by Walz's reaction and questioned him for not condemning the killings. "This is one of the worst "pretend like he didn't hear the question" acting jobs I've seen in recent years," said one user, while another added: "He’s following the example set by Biden and Kamala. Lay low and don’t answer any questions." A third commented: "That is who he is, he turns his back and walks away. Just like he did when he was in service. How can people not see this?" × As the controversy snowballed, Walz's campaign issued a statement, late on Sunday (Sep 1), condemning Hamas as a "brutal terrorist organisation". "The anguish of losing a child is something no family should have to endure. Gwen and I send our deepest condolences to the Goldberg-Polin family, after Hamas' murder of their son Hersh," read a post on Walz's X (formerly Twitter) account. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Massive protests hit Israel after six hostages killed in Gaza What happened in Gaza? The bodies of six hostages were recovered from a tunnel in the Gazan city of Rafah on Sunday. The hostages were killed before they could be rescued, according to the Israeli military. Hersh Goldberg-Polin (23), Ori Danino (25), Eden Yerushalmi (24), Almog Sarusi (27), Alexander Lobanov (33) and Carmel Gat (40) have been identified as the hostages killed by Hamas. Also read | 'Blood on their hands': Donald Trump blames 'crooked' Biden, 'comrade' Harris for Gaza hostage killings Notably, Israeli-American hostage Goldberg-Polin's parents had made an appearance at the Democratic National Convention (DNC), held in Chicago last week. (With inputs from agncies)

Watch | Tim Walz’s shocking reaction when questioned about Israeli hostages found dead in Gaza

Thousands of anti-government protesters took to the streets in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (Jun 1) and called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to work on the deal to release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after the October 7 attack.&nbsp;

<h2>At least 120,000 rally in Tel Aviv</h2>

While Israel has faced months of near-weekly protests since Netanyahu returned to power due to his government’s various policies, including the proposed judicial overhaul and more recently the war in Gaza, Saturday’s rally was said to be one of the largest since Hamas’ October 7 attack.&nbsp;

Israelis have also called on Netanyahu to resign and for the country to hold early elections.

WATCH |&nbsp;Israel urges Netanyahu to 'stand up &amp; publicly accept' truce deal

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Organisers of the protest, as per Times of Israel said some 120,000 demonstrators attended the Tel Aviv rally. Similar rallies reportedly took place in several places across the country.&nbsp;

The rally was also marked by clashes, speeches and massive banners one of which according to images from the protest read “Biden save them from Netanyahu,” seemingly speaking about the hostages, which Hamas took back to Gaza after attacking Israel on October 7.&nbsp;

<h2>Police and protesters clash</h2>

Protesters, during the rally on Saturday, clashed with the police, according to Israeli media reports and videos on social media.&nbsp;

A report by Haaretz said two protesters were arrested and that the police used a sound cannon to disperse the thousands of demonstrators gathered.&nbsp;

Israeli news site, Ynet reported that the police had also brought a water cannon to the rally but did not use it.&nbsp;

At least 14 police officers including Chief Superintendent Avi Ofer and the deputy commander of the Tel Aviv Police Department, were injured during clashes with the protesters, reported Ynet.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Thank you, President Biden’</h2>

Protesters thanked United States President Joe Biden for his speech which called on the Israeli government and Hamas to accept the recent ceasefire proposal by Israel and end the ongoing war in Gaza.&nbsp;

Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-biden-details-new-three-phase-ceasefire-proposal-by-israel-amid-gaza-war-what-is-it-about-727842">three-phase Israeli proposal</a> to Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the deal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by the militant group.&nbsp;

“A step away from a victory that will never come, we’re surrounded by enemies, the whole world’s against us,” said the former head of the finance ministry’s budget department, Shaul Meridor at the rally, referring to Netanyahu’s repeated claims that Israel is close to victory. &nbsp;

He added, “Last night, we received a reminder of what a real leader looks like, who cares for Israel’s future and not his own. Thank you, President Biden.”&nbsp;

Hostages and Missing Families Forum, on Saturday night also called for mass protests warning that there would be “very strong attempts to torpedo the deal”.&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli ministers threaten to quit</h2>

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, two members of the Israeli PM’s right-wing coalition, have threatened to quit if the latest Gaza ceasefire deal is accepted, potentially leading to the collapse of the governing coalition.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Yair Lapid pledged to back the government if the Israeli PM accepted the plan.&nbsp;

Smotrich, in a post on social media, said he told Netanyahu he would “not be part of a government that agrees to the proposed outline and ends the war without destroying Hamas and bringing back all the hostages”.&nbsp;

Similarly, Ben-Gvir called the deal “reckless” and one that “constitutes a victory for terrorism and a security threat to the State of Israel”. He also vowed to “dissolve the government” rather than agree to the proposal.&nbsp;

Notably, Biden during his speech had warned that some people in the governing coalition have “made it clear” that they want to “occupy Gaza.”&nbsp;

He added, “Well, I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Thousands of anti-government protesters took to the streets in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (Jun 1) and called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to work on the deal to release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after the October 7 attack.

Thousands of anti-government protesters took to the streets in the Israeli city of Tel Aviv, on Saturday (Jun 1) and called on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to work on the deal to release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza after the October 7 attack. At least 120,000 rally in Tel Aviv While Israel has faced months of near-weekly protests since Netanyahu returned to power due to his government’s various policies, including the proposed judicial overhaul and more recently the war in Gaza, Saturday’s rally was said to be one of the largest since Hamas’ October 7 attack. Israelis have also called on Netanyahu to resign and for the country to hold early elections. WATCH | Israel urges Netanyahu to 'stand up & publicly accept' truce deal Organisers of the protest, as per Times of Israel said some 120,000 demonstrators attended the Tel Aviv rally. Similar rallies reportedly took place in several places across the country. The rally was also marked by clashes, speeches and massive banners one of which according to images from the protest read “Biden save them from Netanyahu,” seemingly speaking about the hostages, which Hamas took back to Gaza after attacking Israel on October 7. Police and protesters clash Protesters, during the rally on Saturday, clashed with the police, according to Israeli media reports and videos on social media. A report by Haaretz said two protesters were arrested and that the police used a sound cannon to disperse the thousands of demonstrators gathered. Israeli news site, Ynet reported that the police had also brought a water cannon to the rally but did not use it. At least 14 police officers including Chief Superintendent Avi Ofer and the deputy commander of the Tel Aviv Police Department, were injured during clashes with the protesters, reported Ynet. ‘Thank you, President Biden’ Protesters thanked United States President Joe Biden for his speech which called on the Israeli government and Hamas to accept the recent ceasefire proposal by Israel and end the ongoing war in Gaza. Biden, on Friday (May 31) unveiled a three-phase Israeli proposal to Hamas seeking to end the almost eight-month-long war. If accepted, the deal in question would lead to a ceasefire in the Palestinian enclave and the release of hostages held by the militant group. “A step away from a victory that will never come, we’re surrounded by enemies, the whole world’s against us,” said the former head of the finance ministry’s budget department, Shaul Meridor at the rally, referring to Netanyahu’s repeated claims that Israel is close to victory. He added, “Last night, we received a reminder of what a real leader looks like, who cares for Israel’s future and not his own. Thank you, President Biden.” Hostages and Missing Families Forum, on Saturday night also called for mass protests warning that there would be “very strong attempts to torpedo the deal”. Israeli ministers threaten to quit Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, two members of the Israeli PM’s right-wing coalition, have threatened to quit if the latest Gaza ceasefire deal is accepted, potentially leading to the collapse of the governing coalition. Meanwhile, the leader of the opposition Yair Lapid pledged to back the government if the Israeli PM accepted the plan. Smotrich, in a post on social media, said he told Netanyahu he would “not be part of a government that agrees to the proposed outline and ends the war without destroying Hamas and bringing back all the hostages”. Similarly, Ben-Gvir called the deal “reckless” and one that “constitutes a victory for terrorism and a security threat to the State of Israel”. He also vowed to “dissolve the government” rather than agree to the proposal. Notably, Biden during his speech had warned that some people in the governing coalition have “made it clear” that they want to “occupy Gaza.” He added, “Well, I’ve urged leadership in Israel to stand behind this deal, despite whatever pressure comes.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Biden save them from Netanyahu’: 120,000 rally in Tel Aviv against Israeli govt, demand hostage deal

The families of female Israeli soldiers held hostage&nbsp;by Hamas have released a graphic video showing all seven women lined up against a wall with their hands tied. The footage is from&nbsp;Hamas'&nbsp;October 7 terror attack on&nbsp;Israel’s&nbsp;Nahal Oz military base. The faces of some of the women were bruised and had signs of injuries, as seen in the video.&nbsp;

The footage, released by Hostages Families Forum, was previously released by the Palestinian militant group. The forum obtained the video from the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), which had released another video earlier following the attack after filtering out graphic scenes.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas War: World reacts to ICC prosecutor seeking Israel, Hamas arrest warrants

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The family forum said it wanted to further pile pressure on the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by making the video public.

“Every new testimony about what happened to the hostages echoes the same tragic truth – we must bring them all back home, now,”&nbsp;the Hostage Families Forum said in a press release Wednesday.

<h2>Who were the kidnapped women?</h2>

All seven IDF women kidnapped worked as observers for the military, a role that involves monitoring the&nbsp;country's&nbsp;border security.

One of the women in the video is Ori Megidish, who was rescued by IDF in an operation 23 days after she&nbsp;was abducted.

Noa Marciano, another lady seen in the footage, was killed in Gaza, whose dead body&nbsp;was recovered&nbsp;by IDF in November.

The rest of the women—Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Agam Berger, Daniela Gilboa, and Naama Levy—are still held in captivity by Hamas.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwihqs3n46GGAxUXgGMGHaXZAbkQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-mourns-iranian-president-raisis-demise-says-he-supported-group-in-war-against-israel-723608" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-mourns-iranian-president-raisis-demise-says-he-supported-group-in-war-against-israel-723608&amp;ved=2ahUKEwihqs3n46GGAxUXgGMGHaXZAbkQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Hamas, Islamic Jihad mourn Raisi’s demise, hail him for ‘support’ in war against Israel</a>

The Hostages Families Forum said,&nbsp;"The State of Israel cannot accept a reality where its citizens constantly feel their lives are threatened and suffer from unrelenting fear and anxiety.”

“With each passing day, it becomes more challenging to bring the hostages back home – the living for rehabilitation and the murdered for proper burial. The Israeli government must not waste another moment; it must return to the negotiating table today!,”&nbsp;it added.

(With inputs from agencies)

The families of female Israeli soldiers held hostage by Hamas have released a graphic video showing all seven women lined up against a wall with their hands tied.

The families of female Israeli soldiers held hostage by Hamas have released a graphic video showing all seven women lined up against a wall with their hands tied. The footage is from Hamas' October 7 terror attack on Israel’s Nahal Oz military base. The faces of some of the women were bruised and had signs of injuries, as seen in the video. The footage, released by Hostages Families Forum, was previously released by the Palestinian militant group. The forum obtained the video from the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF), which had released another video earlier following the attack after filtering out graphic scenes. Watch: Israel-Hamas War: World reacts to ICC prosecutor seeking Israel, Hamas arrest warrants × The family forum said it wanted to further pile pressure on the government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by making the video public. “Every new testimony about what happened to the hostages echoes the same tragic truth – we must bring them all back home, now,” the Hostage Families Forum said in a press release Wednesday. Who were the kidnapped women? All seven IDF women kidnapped worked as observers for the military, a role that involves monitoring the country's border security. One of the women in the video is Ori Megidish, who was rescued by IDF in an operation 23 days after she was abducted. Noa Marciano, another lady seen in the footage, was killed in Gaza, whose dead body was recovered by IDF in November. The rest of the women—Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Agam Berger, Daniela Gilboa, and Naama Levy—are still held in captivity by Hamas. Also read: Hamas, Islamic Jihad mourn Raisi’s demise, hail him for ‘support’ in war against Israel The Hostages Families Forum said, "The State of Israel cannot accept a reality where its citizens constantly feel their lives are threatened and suffer from unrelenting fear and anxiety.” “With each passing day, it becomes more challenging to bring the hostages back home – the living for rehabilitation and the murdered for proper burial. The Israeli government must not waste another moment; it must return to the negotiating table today!,” it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli hostages’ families release chilling footage of female IDF soldiers’ abduction by Hamas

The Israeli army on Saturday (May 18) said that troops had retrieved the body of hostage Ron Benjamin, who was allegedly captured by Hamas militants while on a cycling trip.&nbsp;

The development comes with a warning by Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz as he demanded a post-war plan by June 8, otherwise, he would quit the coalition.&nbsp;

Gantz asked Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to commit to an agreed vision for the Gaza conflict that would include stipulating who might rule the territory after the war with Hamas.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-have-captured-another-village-in-kharkiv-region-ukraine-struggles-on-eastern-front-722910">Russia claims to have captured another village in Kharkiv region, Ukraine struggles on eastern front</a>&nbsp;

While speaking during a news conference, Gantz said he wanted the war cabinet to form a six-point plan by June 8.&nbsp;

He further added that if his expectations were not met, he would withdraw his centrist party from the conservative premier's emergency government.&nbsp;

<h2>Ron Benjamin's body retrieved&nbsp;</h2>

Military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said Benjamin's body was retrieved in the same operation that saw troops recover the remains of three other hostages.&nbsp;

In a separate statement, the military said that Benjamin was "murdered during the October 7th massacre at the Mefalsim intersection, and his body was abducted to Gaza by Hamas militants".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-may-use-data-from-tiktok-to-spy-on-people-warns-canadas-security-intelligence-chief-722901">China may use data from TikTok to spy on people, warns Canada’s security intelligence chief</a>&nbsp;

"His body was rescued along with the bodies of Yitzhak Gelerenter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila ... based on precise intelligence obtained during the interrogations of terrorists who were apprehended in the Gaza Strip," the statement added.&nbsp;

On Friday, the Israeli military announced that the troops had recovered the bodies of Yitzhak Gelerenter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila. All of them were taken hostage during the attack on the Nova music festival.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Palestinian Islamic Jihad's senior operative killed in West Bank

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The war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack on October 7. Nearly 1,200 people were killed in Israel, as per the authorities.&nbsp;

Thousands of young people had gathered on October 6 and 7 for the electronic music event, which was held near the Re'im kibbutz close to the Gaza border. The Nova festival victims accounted for nearly a third of the Israeli death toll.&nbsp;

Hamas militants had also taken hostages. Out of the 252 people, 124 are still being held inside the Gaza Strip, including 37 the army says are dead.&nbsp;

In retaliation to the attack, Israel launched the war and vowed to wipe out Hamas militants from the Strip.&nbsp;

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.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With&nbsp;inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Israeli army on Saturday (May 18) said that troops had retrieved the body of hostage Ron Benjamin, who was allegedly captured by Hamas militants while on a cycling trip.

The Israeli army on Saturday (May 18) said that troops had retrieved the body of hostage Ron Benjamin, who was allegedly captured by Hamas militants while on a cycling trip. The development comes with a warning by Israeli war cabinet minister Benny Gantz as he demanded a post-war plan by June 8, otherwise, he would quit the coalition. Gantz asked Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to commit to an agreed vision for the Gaza conflict that would include stipulating who might rule the territory after the war with Hamas. Also read: Russia claims to have captured another village in Kharkiv region, Ukraine struggles on eastern front While speaking during a news conference, Gantz said he wanted the war cabinet to form a six-point plan by June 8. He further added that if his expectations were not met, he would withdraw his centrist party from the conservative premier's emergency government. Ron Benjamin's body retrieved Military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said Benjamin's body was retrieved in the same operation that saw troops recover the remains of three other hostages. In a separate statement, the military said that Benjamin was "murdered during the October 7th massacre at the Mefalsim intersection, and his body was abducted to Gaza by Hamas militants". Also read: China may use data from TikTok to spy on people, warns Canada’s security intelligence chief "His body was rescued along with the bodies of Yitzhak Gelerenter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila ... based on precise intelligence obtained during the interrogations of terrorists who were apprehended in the Gaza Strip," the statement added. On Friday, the Israeli military announced that the troops had recovered the bodies of Yitzhak Gelerenter, Shani Louk, and Amit Buskila. All of them were taken hostage during the attack on the Nova music festival. Watch: Palestinian Islamic Jihad's senior operative killed in West Bank × The war started after Hamas militants launched an unprecedented attack on October 7. Nearly 1,200 people were killed in Israel, as per the authorities. Thousands of young people had gathered on October 6 and 7 for the electronic music event, which was held near the Re'im kibbutz close to the Gaza border. The Nova festival victims accounted for nearly a third of the Israeli death toll. Hamas militants had also taken hostages. Out of the 252 people, 124 are still being held inside the Gaza Strip, including 37 the army says are dead. In retaliation to the attack, Israel launched the war and vowed to wipe out Hamas militants from the Strip. 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. (With inputs from agencies)

IDF retrieves body of fourth hostage in Gaza; Gantz gives ultimatum to Netanyahu, sets June 8 deadline

German-Israeli Shani Louk's father says that finally laying his daughter to rest will be a gift after her body was recovered from Gaza, months after she was killed in Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel.

Louk, a 23-year-old tattoo artist, was celebrating with friends at the Nova music festival just inside Israel before it was attacked by gunmen from the Palestinian militant group. Her body was soon seen in a video, slung across the back of a pickup truck, surrounded by gunmen and paraded through Gaza.

On Friday, the Israeli military informed her parents, Nissim and Ricarda Louk, that their daughter's body had been found by Israeli commandos in Gaza. Nissim Louk said that to be sure, he had viewed photos.

"We also saw the tattoos on her hands," he said on Saturday. "Now she will have her own place next to us and we can go there whenever we want. And she can rest." 
 
He said the funeral will be held on Sunday, which is Ricarda Louk's birthday.

"I think Shani said 'let's give my mother a birthday present and let's go back and be close to her'," he added.

Having Shani's grave nearby would be a comfort, said Ricarda Louk.

"Maybe we'll find more peace," she said.

Nissim Louk said there was also solace knowing Shani was doing what she loved best before she died and probably did not suffer. She was pronounced dead by Israeli authorities at the end of October, based on findings in the area of the Nova rave, where more than 360 people were shot, bludgeoned or burned to death.

Videos of a smiling Shani at the party, before the attack, surfaced in the following weeks.

"She was dancing the whole night. She was so happy."&nbsp;

Nissim Louk said,&nbsp;"She never thought that there is evil in the world because she was a free spirit. She saw it only for a couple of seconds."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-hostage-shani-louks-body-recovered-who-was-she-722672">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hostage Shani Louk's body recovered. Who was she?</a>

Around 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 abducted in the Hamas-led attack, according to Israeli tallies. Israel responded by launching a military offensive vowing to eradicate Hamas that is now in its eight month.

More than 35,000 people have since been killed in Gaza, claims the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry. Most of the coastal enclave's population has been displaced and much of it has been laid to waste in the offensive, which has drawn fierce criticism abroad.

Ricarda Louk said she was pained by what she sees as ignorance and misinformation displayed at some U.S. campus protests against Israel's war in Gaza.

Also watch |&nbsp;23-yr-old German-Israeli tattoo artist Shani Louk found dead, was abducted by Hamas on Oct 7

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"It's horrible for us to see," she said. "We can tell you from our own experience. We lost our daughter in this massacre."

"There is no resistance that can justify what happened here," she said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

German-Israeli Shani Louk's father says that finally laying his daughter to rest will be a gift after her body was recovered from Gaza, months after she was killed in Hamas' Oct.

German-Israeli Shani Louk's father says that finally laying his daughter to rest will be a gift after her body was recovered from Gaza, months after she was killed in Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. Louk, a 23-year-old tattoo artist, was celebrating with friends at the Nova music festival just inside Israel before it was attacked by gunmen from the Palestinian militant group. Her body was soon seen in a video, slung across the back of a pickup truck, surrounded by gunmen and paraded through Gaza. On Friday, the Israeli military informed her parents, Nissim and Ricarda Louk, that their daughter's body had been found by Israeli commandos in Gaza. Nissim Louk said that to be sure, he had viewed photos. "We also saw the tattoos on her hands," he said on Saturday. "Now she will have her own place next to us and we can go there whenever we want. And she can rest." He said the funeral will be held on Sunday, which is Ricarda Louk's birthday. "I think Shani said 'let's give my mother a birthday present and let's go back and be close to her'," he added. Having Shani's grave nearby would be a comfort, said Ricarda Louk. "Maybe we'll find more peace," she said. Nissim Louk said there was also solace knowing Shani was doing what she loved best before she died and probably did not suffer. She was pronounced dead by Israeli authorities at the end of October, based on findings in the area of the Nova rave, where more than 360 people were shot, bludgeoned or burned to death. Videos of a smiling Shani at the party, before the attack, surfaced in the following weeks. "She was dancing the whole night. She was so happy." Nissim Louk said, "She never thought that there is evil in the world because she was a free spirit. She saw it only for a couple of seconds." Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hostage Shani Louk's body recovered. Who was she? Around 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 abducted in the Hamas-led attack, according to Israeli tallies. Israel responded by launching a military offensive vowing to eradicate Hamas that is now in its eight month. More than 35,000 people have since been killed in Gaza, claims the Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry. Most of the coastal enclave's population has been displaced and much of it has been laid to waste in the offensive, which has drawn fierce criticism abroad. Ricarda Louk said she was pained by what she sees as ignorance and misinformation displayed at some U.S. campus protests against Israel's war in Gaza. Also watch | 23-yr-old German-Israeli tattoo artist Shani Louk found dead, was abducted by Hamas on Oct 7 × "It's horrible for us to see," she said. "We can tell you from our own experience. We lost our daughter in this massacre." "There is no resistance that can justify what happened here," she said. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli hostage Shani Louk’s body returns from Gaza; emotional parents react

Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, on Saturday (May 11) released a video showing a man held hostage in Gaza. The man can be&nbsp;seen alive in the 11-second footage. The video is superimposed with text in Arabic and Hebrew that reads: "Time is running out. Your government is lying."

The man in the video is believed to be&nbsp;Nadav Poplewell, a UK national, who was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nirim. Hamas said "he died&nbsp;of wounds that he sustained in an Israeli air strike more than a month ago."

The 51-year-old hostage was kidnapped along with his mother&nbsp;Channa Peri, who was released in a hostage-sharing agreement in November last year.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwi59ISB24WGAxXESGcHHfSWB4UQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-over-1700-evacuated-from-areas-near-russian-border-in-kharkiv-720350" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-over-1700-evacuated-from-areas-near-russian-border-in-kharkiv-720350&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi59ISB24WGAxXESGcHHfSWB4UQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Ukraine war: Over 1700 evacuated from areas near Russian border in Kharkiv</a>

Poplewell's brother was killed in the October 7 attacks. In the video,&nbsp;Nadav looks bruised in one of the eyes.

The video was posted on Hamas' telegram channel. It's the third time in less than a month that the group has released&nbsp;footage of hostages.

Earlier, on April 27, the militant group released a video showing two hostages alive: Keith Siegel and Omri Miran.

Three days earlier it posted another video showing hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin alive.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: Israel orders new evacuation orders in Rafah

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It comes as pressure grows over the Israeli government of PM Benjamin Netanyahu to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza.

"Every sign of life received from the hostages held by Hamas is another cry of distress to the Israeli government and its leaders," the families' group said in its statement on Saturday.

"We don't have a moment to spare! You must strive to implement a deal that will bring them all back today," it added.

Some 250 people were abducted to the Gaza Strip on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel.

Israeli officials say 128 of them are still held captive in the Palestinian territory, including 36 who are dead.

Reacting to the video released Saturday,&nbsp;The Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Israel&nbsp;released a statement urging the Netanyahu government to strike a peace deal as soon as possible.

“Every sign of life received from the hostages held by Hamas is another cry of distress to the Israeli government and its leaders,” the families’ group said in its statement.

“We don’t have a moment to spare! You must strive to implement a deal that will bring them all back today.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, on Saturday (May 11) released a video showing a man held hostage in Gaza. The man can be seen alive in the 11-second footage.

Hamas's armed wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, on Saturday (May 11) released a video showing a man held hostage in Gaza. The man can be seen alive in the 11-second footage. The video is superimposed with text in Arabic and Hebrew that reads: "Time is running out. Your government is lying." The man in the video is believed to be Nadav Poplewell, a UK national, who was kidnapped from Kibbutz Nirim. Hamas said "he died of wounds that he sustained in an Israeli air strike more than a month ago." The 51-year-old hostage was kidnapped along with his mother Channa Peri, who was released in a hostage-sharing agreement in November last year. Also read: Ukraine war: Over 1700 evacuated from areas near Russian border in Kharkiv Poplewell's brother was killed in the October 7 attacks. In the video, Nadav looks bruised in one of the eyes. The video was posted on Hamas' telegram channel. It's the third time in less than a month that the group has released footage of hostages. Earlier, on April 27, the militant group released a video showing two hostages alive: Keith Siegel and Omri Miran. Three days earlier it posted another video showing hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin alive. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Israel orders new evacuation orders in Rafah × It comes as pressure grows over the Israeli government of PM Benjamin Netanyahu to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza. "Every sign of life received from the hostages held by Hamas is another cry of distress to the Israeli government and its leaders," the families' group said in its statement on Saturday. "We don't have a moment to spare! You must strive to implement a deal that will bring them all back today," it added. Some 250 people were abducted to the Gaza Strip on October 7 when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel. Israeli officials say 128 of them are still held captive in the Palestinian territory, including 36 who are dead. Reacting to the video released Saturday, The Hostages and Missing Families Forum in Israel released a statement urging the Netanyahu government to strike a peace deal as soon as possible. “Every sign of life received from the hostages held by Hamas is another cry of distress to the Israeli government and its leaders,” the families’ group said in its statement. “We don’t have a moment to spare! You must strive to implement a deal that will bring them all back today.” (With inputs from agencies)

‘Time is running out’: Hamas releases video showing hostage, claims he ‘died in Israeli strike’

An 18-year-old Israeli hostage, who was held captive by Hamas for about 50 days, on Thursday (Apr 25) revealed that one of the captors of the Palestinian militant group proposed to her for marriage.

Noga Weiss was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7 when Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel. She was released in a truce deal last year.

Noga, recalling the incident, said that the captor wanted to marry her and have kids.

“He gave me a ring on day 14 [in captivity], and I stayed with him until day 50,” The Times of Israel quoted Noga as saying.

“He told me, ‘Everyone will be released, but you will stay here with me and have my children’,” she recalled.

“I pretended to laugh so he wouldn’t shoot me in the head,” she further added.

However, Noga's mother Shiri, who was also abducted by the group on Oct 7, rejected the proposal and yelled at the captor until he understood.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-campus-protests-spread-like-wildfire-as-police-resort-to-rubber-bullets-teargas-arrest-several-dozens-715051">US pro-Palestine protest updates: Columbia University drops deadline to remove encampments</a>

<h2>Noga's abduction</h2>

Noga was with her parents at home in Kibbutz Be’eri when Hamas militants broke through Israel and held thousands of people hostage.

Her 56-year-old father Ilan left the house at around 7:15 am to join the kibbutz emergency squad. However, he was never heard from again and was later confirmed dead.

“They started shooting at the door, something like 40 shots until they managed to get in. We saw the conversations on WhatsApp and understood what was happening. People were writing that their house was on fire and then stopped answering,” Noga said.

Shiri instructed Noga to hide under the bed thinking that upon barging inside the room the terrorists would not notice the 18-year-old and instead shoot the mother.

“I went under the bed, and they came in and took her. After they took her outside, I heard gunshots. I thought she was murdered and not kidnapped,” Noga said.

Noga, however, reunited with her mother several days later.

<h2>US, along with 17 other countries, issues joint statement calling on Hamas to release hostages</h2>

Meanwhile, the United States along with 17 other countries released a joint statement calling on Hamas to release all the hostages so as to end the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip.

"We call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now for over 200 days," a statement by the countries said, in what a senior US official called an extraordinary display of unanimity.

"The fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza who are protected under international law is of international concern," the statement added.

All the 18 countries that issued an appeal to Hamas have had their citizens held as captives by the Palestinian militant group for more than six months.

(With inputs from agencies)

An 18-year-old Israeli hostage, who was held captive by Hamas for about 50 days, on Thursday (Apr 25) revealed that one of the captors of the Palestinian militant group proposed to her for marriage.

An 18-year-old Israeli hostage, who was held captive by Hamas for about 50 days, on Thursday (Apr 25) revealed that one of the captors of the Palestinian militant group proposed to her for marriage. Noga Weiss was abducted from her home in Kibbutz Be'eri on October 7 when Hamas launched unprecedented attacks against Israel. She was released in a truce deal last year. Noga, recalling the incident, said that the captor wanted to marry her and have kids. “He gave me a ring on day 14 [in captivity], and I stayed with him until day 50,” The Times of Israel quoted Noga as saying. “He told me, ‘Everyone will be released, but you will stay here with me and have my children’,” she recalled. “I pretended to laugh so he wouldn’t shoot me in the head,” she further added. However, Noga's mother Shiri, who was also abducted by the group on Oct 7, rejected the proposal and yelled at the captor until he understood. Also read: US pro-Palestine protest updates: Columbia University drops deadline to remove encampments Noga's abduction Noga was with her parents at home in Kibbutz Be’eri when Hamas militants broke through Israel and held thousands of people hostage. Her 56-year-old father Ilan left the house at around 7:15 am to join the kibbutz emergency squad. However, he was never heard from again and was later confirmed dead. “They started shooting at the door, something like 40 shots until they managed to get in. We saw the conversations on WhatsApp and understood what was happening. People were writing that their house was on fire and then stopped answering,” Noga said. Shiri instructed Noga to hide under the bed thinking that upon barging inside the room the terrorists would not notice the 18-year-old and instead shoot the mother. “I went under the bed, and they came in and took her. After they took her outside, I heard gunshots. I thought she was murdered and not kidnapped,” Noga said. Noga, however, reunited with her mother several days later. US, along with 17 other countries, issues joint statement calling on Hamas to release hostages Meanwhile, the United States along with 17 other countries released a joint statement calling on Hamas to release all the hostages so as to end the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip. "We call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now for over 200 days," a statement by the countries said, in what a senior US official called an extraordinary display of unanimity. "The fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza who are protected under international law is of international concern," the statement added. All the 18 countries that issued an appeal to Hamas have had their citizens held as captives by the Palestinian militant group for more than six months. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli hostage says Hamas captor proposed her for marriage; ‘he gave me a ring’

Overnight Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza City of Rafah have claimed the lives of "around 100" Palestinians including children, said the Hamas-run health ministry on Monday (Feb 12). Meanwhile, Israel reported that it had successfully rescued two hostages from the city.

<h2>Strikes kill 100</h2>

In a statement, the Hamas-run territory's health ministry said that overnight heavy airstrikes on the overcrowded city of Rafah killed "around 100".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worried-about-border-situation-egypt-issues-ultimatum-to-hamas-to-reach-ceasefire-agreement-689393">Worried about Rafah border situation, Egypt issues ultimatum to Hamas to reach ceasefire deal</a>

It said that the strikes hit 14 houses and three mosques in different parts of the city. Reuters reports that the militant group&nbsp;said the attack on Rafah was a continuation of a "genocidal war" and forced displacement attempts Israel has waged against the Palestinian people.

As people flee Israel's heavy bombardment elsewhere in the Gaza Strip, the city, according to AFP, now hosts more than half of Gaza's total population. This amounts to around 1.4 million Palestinians, many of them living in tents.

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war: US President Biden warns Israel against Rafah assault

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The Israeli military, as per the report, said it had "conducted a series of strikes on terror targets in the area of Shaboura in the southern Gaza Strip." The strikes had concluded, it added.

<h2>Rescue operation</h2>

The Israeli ministry,&nbsp;as per an AFP report, announced that after nearly 130 days of captivity, two Israeli-Argentinian hostages were rescued in a joint military, Shin Bet and police operation.

In a statement, they were identified as Fernando Simon Marman and Louis Har. The army said that they "were kidnapped by the Hamas terrorist organisation on October 7th from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/israel-economy-poised-for-recovery-despite-moodys-downgrade-says-bank-of-israel-governor-689496">Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody's downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor</a>

The two men are in a "good medical condition," it said.

In a briefing, army spokesperson Daniel Hagari revealed that, "The military and the Shin Bet have been working on this operation for a long time."

"They waited until the conditions were right to carry it out," he said.

He said that a firefight broke out during the rescue, due to which air strikes targeted nearby buildings from where shots were fired.

"Many terrorists were killed this evening during this operation and one of our fighters was slightly injured," said Hagari.

(With inputs from agencies)

Overnight Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza City of Rafah have claimed the lives of "around 100" Palestinians including children, said the Hamas-run health ministry on Monday (Feb 12).

Overnight Israeli airstrikes on the southern Gaza City of Rafah have claimed the lives of "around 100" Palestinians including children, said the Hamas-run health ministry on Monday (Feb 12). Meanwhile, Israel reported that it had successfully rescued two hostages from the city. Strikes kill 100 In a statement, the Hamas-run territory's health ministry said that overnight heavy airstrikes on the overcrowded city of Rafah killed "around 100". Also read | Worried about Rafah border situation, Egypt issues ultimatum to Hamas to reach ceasefire deal It said that the strikes hit 14 houses and three mosques in different parts of the city. Reuters reports that the militant group said the attack on Rafah was a continuation of a "genocidal war" and forced displacement attempts Israel has waged against the Palestinian people. As people flee Israel's heavy bombardment elsewhere in the Gaza Strip, the city, according to AFP, now hosts more than half of Gaza's total population. This amounts to around 1.4 million Palestinians, many of them living in tents. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: US President Biden warns Israel against Rafah assault × The Israeli military, as per the report, said it had "conducted a series of strikes on terror targets in the area of Shaboura in the southern Gaza Strip." The strikes had concluded, it added. Rescue operation The Israeli ministry, as per an AFP report, announced that after nearly 130 days of captivity, two Israeli-Argentinian hostages were rescued in a joint military, Shin Bet and police operation. In a statement, they were identified as Fernando Simon Marman and Louis Har. The army said that they "were kidnapped by the Hamas terrorist organisation on October 7th from Kibbutz Nir Yitzhak". Also read | Israel economy poised for recovery despite Moody's downgrade, says bank of Israel Governor The two men are in a "good medical condition," it said. In a briefing, army spokesperson Daniel Hagari revealed that, "The military and the Shin Bet have been working on this operation for a long time." "They waited until the conditions were right to carry it out," he said. He said that a firefight broke out during the rescue, due to which air strikes targeted nearby buildings from where shots were fired. "Many terrorists were killed this evening during this operation and one of our fighters was slightly injured," said Hagari. (With inputs from agencies)

Overnight airstrikes kill ‘around 100’ in Rafah; Israel rescues two hostages

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised.&nbsp;

Hours after the United Nations top court gave a ruling in the genocide case filed against Israel by South Africa and asked the country to take steps to prevent genocide in Gaza, militant group Hamas published a new video of three female hostages who have been held captive in the Gaza Strip from October 7.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/top-un-court-orders-israel-to-take-steps-to-prevent-genocide-in-gaza-report-back-in-a-month-683996">Top UN court orders Israel to take steps to prevent genocide in Gaza, report back in a month</a>

In the edited five-minute-long video, soldiers Daniella Gilboa and Karina Ariev, and civilian Doron Steinbrecher were seen identifying themselves and appealing to the Israeli government to find a way for them to return them home.

The women claimed that they had been detained by Hamas for 107 days and their comments were mostly critical of the failure of Israel to rescue them, while all three hostages were referred to be under bombardment or fire.

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⚡️Hamas published a video showing a message from by female IOF soldiers in the Gaza Strip. 
 
They say they are ashamed of Netanyahu. One of the girls said: 
 
“I became more afraid of my &lt;country&gt; than I feared Hamas” <a href="https://t.co/ios3NkrowC">https://t.co/ios3NkrowC</a> <a href="https://t.co/aFF6Ww5Hla">pic.twitter.com/aFF6Ww5Hla</a>
— Arya - آریا 🇮🇷 (@AryJeay) <a href="https://twitter.com/AryJeay/status/1750882755125117239?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Hamas says video filmed day 107 of war</h2>

Hamas has claimed that the video was filmed on day 107 of the ongoing war against Israel, however, they did not provide any evidence to support the claim. 
 
Previously, Hamas had issued similar videos of hostages who have been kept captive in Gaza. These steps of Hamas have been called deplorable psychological warfare by Israel. 
 
Earlier in the day, the International Court of Justice said that it is under its jurisdiction to rule over emergency measures as appealed by South Africa in the genocide case filed against Israel, in the wake of its ongoing war in Gaza.

Watch:&nbsp;ICJ ruling on Israel Genocide case: "Israel must not destroy evidence of genocide in Gaza"

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It further said that Israel must punish people for committing genocide in Gaza and should immediately stop its attacks in Gaza. 
 
The court further asked Israel to submit a report on the steps taken by the country to comply with its orders within one month.&nbsp;

The attacks carried out by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulted in the death of 1,140 civilians in Israel, as per an AFP tally on the basis of official Israeli figures. 
 
The militants also seized more than 250 hostages and Israel stated that nearly 132 of them have been kept hostage in Gaza, which included the dead bodies of at least 28 dead captives. 
 
Nearly 26,083 Palestinians, among which 70 per cent of them young children, women, and adolescents, were killed in the bombardments and ground offensive carried out by Israel in the Gaza Strip, as per the health ministry of the Hamas government.

(With inputs from agencies)

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Hours after the United Nations top court gave a ruling in the genocide case filed against Israel by South Africa and asked the country to take steps to prevent genocide in Gaza, militant group Hamas published a new video of three female hostages who have been held captive in the Gaza Strip from October 7.

Trigger warning: Some readers may find details of this report disturbing. Discretion is advised. Hours after the United Nations top court gave a ruling in the genocide case filed against Israel by South Africa and asked the country to take steps to prevent genocide in Gaza, militant group Hamas published a new video of three female hostages who have been held captive in the Gaza Strip from October 7. Also read: Top UN court orders Israel to take steps to prevent genocide in Gaza, report back in a month In the edited five-minute-long video, soldiers Daniella Gilboa and Karina Ariev, and civilian Doron Steinbrecher were seen identifying themselves and appealing to the Israeli government to find a way for them to return them home. The women claimed that they had been detained by Hamas for 107 days and their comments were mostly critical of the failure of Israel to rescue them, while all three hostages were referred to be under bombardment or fire. ⚡️Hamas published a video showing a message from by female IOF soldiers in the Gaza Strip. They say they are ashamed of Netanyahu. One of the girls said: “I became more afraid of my <country> than I feared Hamas” https://t.co/ios3NkrowC pic.twitter.com/aFF6Ww5Hla — Arya - آریا 🇮🇷 (@AryJeay) January 26, 2024 × Hamas says video filmed day 107 of war Hamas has claimed that the video was filmed on day 107 of the ongoing war against Israel, however, they did not provide any evidence to support the claim. Previously, Hamas had issued similar videos of hostages who have been kept captive in Gaza. These steps of Hamas have been called deplorable psychological warfare by Israel. Earlier in the day, the International Court of Justice said that it is under its jurisdiction to rule over emergency measures as appealed by South Africa in the genocide case filed against Israel, in the wake of its ongoing war in Gaza. Watch: ICJ ruling on Israel Genocide case: "Israel must not destroy evidence of genocide in Gaza" It further said that Israel must punish people for committing genocide in Gaza and should immediately stop its attacks in Gaza. The court further asked Israel to submit a report on the steps taken by the country to comply with its orders within one month. The attacks carried out by Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulted in the death of 1,140 civilians in Israel, as per an AFP tally on the basis of official Israeli figures. The militants also seized more than 250 hostages and Israel stated that nearly 132 of them have been kept hostage in Gaza, which included the dead bodies of at least 28 dead captives. Nearly 26,083 Palestinians, among which 70 per cent of them young children, women, and adolescents, were killed in the bombardments and ground offensive carried out by Israel in the Gaza Strip, as per the health ministry of the Hamas government. (With inputs from agencies)

TRIGGER WARNING: Hamas releases new video of three Israeli hostages in Gaza, hours after ICJ ruling

Israel said it was investigating the footage released by&nbsp;Hamas showing the bodies of two Israeli hostages. The&nbsp;Palestinian terror outfit claimed that the hostages&nbsp;had been killed in the Israeli military strikes.&nbsp;

In the purported video, 26-year-old Noa&nbsp;Argamani can be seen reading a script in front of a wall, saying her fellow hostages Itai Svirsky and Yossi Sharabi had been killed. The footage ends with pictures of the dead bodies of both men.&nbsp;

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said the claim&nbsp;made by Hamas that the military targeted the building where hostages were being held, was a lie. He, however, indicated that it was possible that the hostages were located close to a building that the IDF targeted.&nbsp;

“Itai&nbsp;was not killed by our forces. This is a Hamas lie. The building where they were held was not a target and was not attacked by our forces,"&nbsp;Hagari said.&nbsp;

“We did not know their exact location in real-time. We do not strike where we know there are hostages. In retrospect, we know that we attacked targets close to the location where they were held,” he added.&nbsp;

Hagari said the military was examining the photos Hamas posted along with the other information it had.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Israel-Hamas war | Hamas armed-wing spokesman: Fate of many hostages unknown

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<h2>Who are the three hostages?</h2>

Notably,&nbsp;Argamani became one of the prominent faces of Hamas' brutality as she was filmed by her captors being taken into Gaza forcefully on the back of a motorcycle.&nbsp;

Sharabi, 53, was kidnapped from&nbsp;Kibbutz Beeri, alongside his brother.&nbsp;Svirsky, 35, was also picked from the same region after being shot and wounded. Notably,&nbsp;Kibbutz Beeri&nbsp;was one of the hardest-hit communities in the Hamas assault of October 7 last year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-will-dance-again-freed-hamas-hostage-mia-schem-strikes-defiance-with-new-tattoo-668602">Also read |&nbsp;'We will dance again': Freed Hamas hostage Mia Schem strikes defiance with new tattoo</a>

Ever since the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas collapsed, Tel Aviv has upped the ante by re-launching aerial and ground operations.

Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry claims that more than 24,000&nbsp;people have been killed since Israel launched its retaliatory operations following the militant group’s attack on October 7 in southern Israel.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
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.

Israel said it was investigating the footage released by Hamas showing the bodies of two Israeli hostages. The Palestinian terror outfit claimed that the hostages had been killed in the Israeli military strikes.

Israel said it was investigating the footage released by Hamas showing the bodies of two Israeli hostages. The Palestinian terror outfit claimed that the hostages had been killed in the Israeli military strikes. In the purported video, 26-year-old Noa Argamani can be seen reading a script in front of a wall, saying her fellow hostages Itai Svirsky and Yossi Sharabi had been killed. The footage ends with pictures of the dead bodies of both men. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said the claim made by Hamas that the military targeted the building where hostages were being held, was a lie. He, however, indicated that it was possible that the hostages were located close to a building that the IDF targeted. “Itai was not killed by our forces. This is a Hamas lie. The building where they were held was not a target and was not attacked by our forces," Hagari said. “We did not know their exact location in real-time. We do not strike where we know there are hostages. In retrospect, we know that we attacked targets close to the location where they were held,” he added. Hagari said the military was examining the photos Hamas posted along with the other information it had. ALSO WATCH | Israel-Hamas war | Hamas armed-wing spokesman: Fate of many hostages unknown Who are the three hostages? Notably, Argamani became one of the prominent faces of Hamas' brutality as she was filmed by her captors being taken into Gaza forcefully on the back of a motorcycle. Sharabi, 53, was kidnapped from Kibbutz Beeri, alongside his brother. Svirsky, 35, was also picked from the same region after being shot and wounded. Notably, Kibbutz Beeri was one of the hardest-hit communities in the Hamas assault of October 7 last year. Also read | 'We will dance again': Freed Hamas hostage Mia Schem strikes defiance with new tattoo Ever since the second truce deal between Israel and Hamas collapsed, Tel Aviv has upped the ante by re-launching aerial and ground operations. Hamas-run Palestinian health ministry claims that more than 24,000 people have been killed since Israel launched its retaliatory operations following the militant group’s attack on October 7 in southern Israel. (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.

Israel probes video showing bodies of hostages who Hamas says were killed by Israeli attacks

The Israeli military released chilling footage of what is said to be the inside of a huge tunnel dug up by the Hamas terrorist group where five Israeli hostages were found dead.

The clip shows the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) gathering at the entrance of the tunnel, which is said to be&nbsp;more than 32ft below schools and hospitals in Jabalia city, north of the Gaza Strip.

The Israeli military believes that the passage, which was discovered during the military raid carried out to ‘dismantle' the Hamas operation, was the “underground headquarters” of the terrorist group in North Gaza.

<h2>Bodies discovered earlier this month&nbsp;</h2>

Eylon Levy, the spokesperson for Israel's armed forces, said the bodies of three soldiers —Warrant Officer Ziv Dado, Sergeant Ron Sherman, and Corporal Nik Beizer —as well as of Eden Zacharia and Elia Toledanon, taken from the Nova festival during the October 7 attacks, were discovered at the site earlier this month.

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In a centralized intelligence effort, IDF troops located and recovered the bodies of 5 hostages—abducted during the October 7 Massacre—and brought them back to Israel: 
 
🕯️WO Ziv Dado 
🕯️SGT Ron Sherman 
🕯️CPL Nik Beizer 
🕯️Eden Zacharia 
🕯️Elia Toledano 
 
May their memory be a… <a href="https://t.co/tq1UlLo8Z2">pic.twitter.com/tq1UlLo8Z2</a>
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) <a href="https://twitter.com/IDF/status/1738994790606274677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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In a statement published on X on Sunday (Dec 2) evening, Levy said, “The IDF has completed an extensive operation to dismantle Hamas' northern underground headquarters in Gaza, revealing underground infrastructure where IDF soldiers discovered hostages’ bodies.”

“In fierce battles to secure the Hamas stronghold of Jabalia, the IDF exposed a strategic tunnel network that served as Hamas' northern headquarters in Gaza. The first level was 10m deep under the city, the second dozens of meters deep,” he said.

“In the Hamas underground terror network, the IDF recovered the bodies of five 10/7 hostages: Warrant Officer Ziv Dado, Sergeant Ron Sherman, Corporal Nik Beizer, Eden Zacharia, and Elia Toledano. May their memory be a blessing,” he added.

<h2>Israel plans to flood Hamas tunnels in Gaza with seawater </h2>

Meanwhile, it is understood that the Israeli armed forces are mulling flooding the Hamas tunnel network in Gaza with seawater.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/churches-markets-across-europe-on-high-alert-amidst-christmas-terror-attack-scare-673282">Churches, markets across Europe on high alert amidst Christmas terror attack scare</a>

The military initiated the trial earlier this month when it began pumping seawater into the subterranean network&nbsp;to drive Hamas&nbsp;militants above ground and deny them a significant strategic advantage.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-sea-ship-attacks-inside-disrupted-shipping-route-over-west-asias-gate-of-tears-673216">Red Sea ship attacks: Inside disrupted shipping route through West Asia's 'gate of tears'</a>

It had assembled large seawater pumps roughly one mile north of the Al-Shati refugee camp around the middle of last month. Each of at least five pumps can draw water from the Mediterranean Sea and move thousands of cubic metres of water per hour into the tunnels, flooding them within weeks.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Israeli military released chilling footage of what is said to be the inside of a huge tunnel dug up by the Hamas terrorist group where five Israeli hostages were found dead.

The Israeli military released chilling footage of what is said to be the inside of a huge tunnel dug up by the Hamas terrorist group where five Israeli hostages were found dead. The clip shows the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) gathering at the entrance of the tunnel, which is said to be more than 32ft below schools and hospitals in Jabalia city, north of the Gaza Strip. The Israeli military believes that the passage, which was discovered during the military raid carried out to ‘dismantle' the Hamas operation, was the “underground headquarters” of the terrorist group in North Gaza. Bodies discovered earlier this month Eylon Levy, the spokesperson for Israel's armed forces, said the bodies of three soldiers —Warrant Officer Ziv Dado, Sergeant Ron Sherman, and Corporal Nik Beizer —as well as of Eden Zacharia and Elia Toledanon, taken from the Nova festival during the October 7 attacks, were discovered at the site earlier this month. In a centralized intelligence effort, IDF troops located and recovered the bodies of 5 hostages—abducted during the October 7 Massacre—and brought them back to Israel: 🕯️WO Ziv Dado 🕯️SGT Ron Sherman 🕯️CPL Nik Beizer 🕯️Eden Zacharia 🕯️Elia Toledano May their memory be a… pic.twitter.com/tq1UlLo8Z2 — Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) December 24, 2023 × In a statement published on X on Sunday (Dec 2) evening, Levy said, “The IDF has completed an extensive operation to dismantle Hamas' northern underground headquarters in Gaza, revealing underground infrastructure where IDF soldiers discovered hostages’ bodies.” “In fierce battles to secure the Hamas stronghold of Jabalia, the IDF exposed a strategic tunnel network that served as Hamas' northern headquarters in Gaza. The first level was 10m deep under the city, the second dozens of meters deep,” he said. “In the Hamas underground terror network, the IDF recovered the bodies of five 10/7 hostages: Warrant Officer Ziv Dado, Sergeant Ron Sherman, Corporal Nik Beizer, Eden Zacharia, and Elia Toledano. May their memory be a blessing,” he added. Israel plans to flood Hamas tunnels in Gaza with seawater Meanwhile, it is understood that the Israeli armed forces are mulling flooding the Hamas tunnel network in Gaza with seawater. Also read | Churches, markets across Europe on high alert amidst Christmas terror attack scare The military initiated the trial earlier this month when it began pumping seawater into the subterranean network to drive Hamas militants above ground and deny them a significant strategic advantage. Also read | Red Sea ship attacks: Inside disrupted shipping route through West Asia's 'gate of tears' It had assembled large seawater pumps roughly one mile north of the Al-Shati refugee camp around the middle of last month. Each of at least five pumps can draw water from the Mediterranean Sea and move thousands of cubic metres of water per hour into the tunnels, flooding them within weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

Israeli military releases video of huge Hamas tunnel where five hostages were found dead

The Hamas group released a new video showing three elderly Israeli hostages, who can be purportedly seen denouncing Israel as a “criminal, terrorist”.

The three have been identified by the Israeli military as 79-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger, and 84-year-old Amiram Cooper.

These three were among 240 Israelis who were taken as hostages by the Hamas militants during the October 7 terrorist assault.

<h2>'Suffering greatly'</h2>

The clip, which was shared on Telegram by Hamas on Monday (Dec 18), shows Peri saying that he and two others who have health issues are “suffering greatly in very harsh conditions”.

“We are the generation who built the foundation for the creation of Israel. We are the ones who started the IDF military. We don’t understand why we have been abandoned here,” he said, referring to the Israeli armed forces.

“You have to release us from here. It does not matter at what cost. We don’t want to be casualties as a direct result of the IDF military air strikes. Release us with no conditions,” he added.

The video concludes with the three men saying in unison, “Don’t let us grow old here.”

<h2>IDF slams Hamas for 'showing cruelty'</h2>

Israeli Defence Force (IDF) spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari promptly termed the latest video as “atrocious terror.”

“It shows the cruelty of Hamas against elderly civilians, innocents, who require medical attention,” Hagari said at a press conference, according to Times of Israel newspaper.

“The world must work to allow medical aid and to verify their condition.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-will-continue-providing-arms-to-israel-says-austin-671057">US will 'continue' providing arms to Israel, says Austin</a>

“Our hearts are with the hostages and their families at every moment,” Hagari continued. “Haim, Yoram, and Amiram, I hope you can hear me this evening. You should know that we are doing everything to return you home safely. We will not rest until you return.”

<h2>Families concerned&nbsp;</h2>

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-israeli-hacking-group-disrupts-70-of-irans-petrol-pumps-670865">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hacking group disrupts 70% of Iran’s petrol pumps</a>

Roni, son of one of the hostages, Yoram Metzger, told Hebrew media outlets that his father, a diabetic who has mobility issues, looked “years older” and thin.

“Father is not in a good condition. Everything must be done to bring [the hostages] home,” he told Kan news.

Speaking to the Ynet outlet, Metzger said that Cooper and Peri also “don’t look in good condition, not themselves. You don’t see a shred of liveliness on their faces.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The Hamas group released a new video showing three elderly Israeli hostages, who can be purportedly seen denouncing Israel as a “criminal, terrorist”. The three have been identified by the Israeli military as 79-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger, and 84-year-old Amiram Cooper.

The Hamas group released a new video showing three elderly Israeli hostages, who can be purportedly seen denouncing Israel as a “criminal, terrorist”. The three have been identified by the Israeli military as 79-year-old Chaim Peri, 80-year-old Yoram Metzger, and 84-year-old Amiram Cooper. These three were among 240 Israelis who were taken as hostages by the Hamas militants during the October 7 terrorist assault. 'Suffering greatly' The clip, which was shared on Telegram by Hamas on Monday (Dec 18), shows Peri saying that he and two others who have health issues are “suffering greatly in very harsh conditions”. “We are the generation who built the foundation for the creation of Israel. We are the ones who started the IDF military. We don’t understand why we have been abandoned here,” he said, referring to the Israeli armed forces. “You have to release us from here. It does not matter at what cost. We don’t want to be casualties as a direct result of the IDF military air strikes. Release us with no conditions,” he added. The video concludes with the three men saying in unison, “Don’t let us grow old here.” IDF slams Hamas for 'showing cruelty' Israeli Defence Force (IDF) spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari promptly termed the latest video as “atrocious terror.” “It shows the cruelty of Hamas against elderly civilians, innocents, who require medical attention,” Hagari said at a press conference, according to Times of Israel newspaper. “The world must work to allow medical aid and to verify their condition.” Also read | US will 'continue' providing arms to Israel, says Austin “Our hearts are with the hostages and their families at every moment,” Hagari continued. “Haim, Yoram, and Amiram, I hope you can hear me this evening. You should know that we are doing everything to return you home safely. We will not rest until you return.” Families concerned Also read | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli hacking group disrupts 70% of Iran’s petrol pumps Roni, son of one of the hostages, Yoram Metzger, told Hebrew media outlets that his father, a diabetic who has mobility issues, looked “years older” and thin. “Father is not in a good condition. Everything must be done to bring [the hostages] home,” he told Kan news. Speaking to the Ynet outlet, Metzger said that Cooper and Peri also “don’t look in good condition, not themselves. You don’t see a shred of liveliness on their faces.” (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas releases new hostage video, Israel terms it ‘atrocious terror’

A 27-year-old Israeli woman who was taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel has been confirmed dead, the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum announced.&nbsp;

Inbar Haiman was said to have been abducted from the Supernova music festival and described as a “creative girl full of joy.”&nbsp;

<h2>About her reported death</h2>

The Forum said Haiman’s family were informed of her death by authorities, but no other details about how or when she was killed were immediately known. Haiman is survived by her parents and a brother, reported Times of Israel.&nbsp;

According to the forum, her body is believed to remain held by Hamas in Gaza. Haiman was among dozens of hostages taken by the Palestinian militant group from the Supernova desert rave which turned into a massacre during the attacks after Hamas fighters, according to Israeli officials, killed at least 360 partygoers.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened to her at the festival?</h2>

The visual communications student from the city of Haifa, in northern Israel was volunteering at the festival, according to her boyfriend Noam Alon.&nbsp;

She had texted him when the Palestinian militant group attacked and he told her to avoid the roads where Hamas fighters were reportedly shooting people who were trying to escape.&nbsp;

When they lost touch with her, Inbar’s family and Alon posted her details on social media and eventually they heard from two witnesses. They recognised her from her distinctive leggings and said Haiman first hid under a stage with friends and then took cover under a bush, reported Times of Israel.&nbsp;

The two witnesses also reportedly told her family that she later was found by a pair of Hamas fighters armed with knives, who hauled the 27-year-old out and placed her on a motorbike.&nbsp;

Her family and Alon later received a video posted by Hamas on Telegram, showing Haiman looking bloody and beaten, surrounded by four men, according to Times of Israel. &nbsp;

“The video came as a kind of relief,” Alon told the Guardian, in an interview last month after the video emerged. “The other option – that she was dead – was far worse. Knowing that she’s now a hostage in Gaza isn’t easy – it’s something you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy – but it’s better than the alternative.”

The news of her reported death came a day after the Israeli military said that they found the bodies of two soldiers and one civilian hostage who were taken captive by Hamas. The civilian was later identified as Elia Toledano, a 28-year-old French-Israeli citizen.

It is believed that around 128 people are still in Hamas captivity, but not all of them are thought to be alive. Some 105 Israeli hostages were released from Gaza during the week-long truce last month. Additionally, the bodies of eight hostages have been recovered so far, according to the Israeli army.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, families of hostages have ramped up pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure their release, particularly since the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) admitted three hostages were mistakenly killed by their troops in Gaza.&nbsp;

More than 18,700 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its retaliatory attacks, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.&nbsp;

(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.

A 27-year-old Israeli woman who was taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel has been confirmed dead, the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum announced.

A 27-year-old Israeli woman who was taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas during the October 7 attack on southern Israel has been confirmed dead, the Hostages and Missing Persons Families Forum announced. Inbar Haiman was said to have been abducted from the Supernova music festival and described as a “creative girl full of joy.” About her reported death The Forum said Haiman’s family were informed of her death by authorities, but no other details about how or when she was killed were immediately known. Haiman is survived by her parents and a brother, reported Times of Israel. According to the forum, her body is believed to remain held by Hamas in Gaza. Haiman was among dozens of hostages taken by the Palestinian militant group from the Supernova desert rave which turned into a massacre during the attacks after Hamas fighters, according to Israeli officials, killed at least 360 partygoers. What happened to her at the festival? The visual communications student from the city of Haifa, in northern Israel was volunteering at the festival, according to her boyfriend Noam Alon. She had texted him when the Palestinian militant group attacked and he told her to avoid the roads where Hamas fighters were reportedly shooting people who were trying to escape. When they lost touch with her, Inbar’s family and Alon posted her details on social media and eventually they heard from two witnesses. They recognised her from her distinctive leggings and said Haiman first hid under a stage with friends and then took cover under a bush, reported Times of Israel. The two witnesses also reportedly told her family that she later was found by a pair of Hamas fighters armed with knives, who hauled the 27-year-old out and placed her on a motorbike. Her family and Alon later received a video posted by Hamas on Telegram, showing Haiman looking bloody and beaten, surrounded by four men, according to Times of Israel. “The video came as a kind of relief,” Alon told the Guardian, in an interview last month after the video emerged. “The other option – that she was dead – was far worse. Knowing that she’s now a hostage in Gaza isn’t easy – it’s something you wouldn’t wish on your worst enemy – but it’s better than the alternative.” The news of her reported death came a day after the Israeli military said that they found the bodies of two soldiers and one civilian hostage who were taken captive by Hamas. The civilian was later identified as Elia Toledano, a 28-year-old French-Israeli citizen. It is believed that around 128 people are still in Hamas captivity, but not all of them are thought to be alive. Some 105 Israeli hostages were released from Gaza during the week-long truce last month. Additionally, the bodies of eight hostages have been recovered so far, according to the Israeli army. Meanwhile, families of hostages have ramped up pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure their release, particularly since the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) admitted three hostages were mistakenly killed by their troops in Gaza. More than 18,700 people have been killed in Gaza since Israel launched its retaliatory attacks, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. (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.

Israeli hostage, 27-year-old woman Inbar Haiman, confirmed dead in Hamas captivity: Report

Three Israeli hostages accidently killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops were shirtless and waving a white flag when they&nbsp;were mistaken for being militants, according to an IDF official. Meanwhile, thousands of Israelis took to the streets in the city of Tel Aviv urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

<h2>Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by troops</h2>

Three Israeli hostages – Yotam Haim (28), Samer Talalka (22), and Alon Shamriz (26) – were killed in Gaza’s Shejaiya on Friday (Dec 15) around 10:00 am (local time), said an Israeli military official. The case, according to the IDF, was “against our rules of engagement” and had prompted an investigation at the “highest level”.&nbsp;

The initial probe revealed that a soldier stationed at a building identified three suspicious figures emerging from another building around several dozen metres away, reported Times of Israel citing a senior IDF official.&nbsp;

All three were shirtless and one of them was carrying a stick with a white cloth. According to the initial probe, the soldier thought it was an attempt by Hamas to lure them into a trap and immediately opened fire and shouted “terrorists!”.&nbsp;

The soldier, according to the probe, killed two men, while the third one returned to the building he emerged from. Subsequently, the commander of the battalion went outside and asked the troops to stop firing.&nbsp;

The third hostage was heard shouting “Help” in Hebrew and came out of the building and another soldier opened fire at him and fatally shot him, it was found after the initial probe.&nbsp;

Wichian Temthong, a freed Thai hostage, told BBC, that he was “very shocked” and “saddened” to learn about the deaths of the three men with whom he had spent nearly 50 days in captivity.

“We couldn’t speak each other’s languages, so we mostly did hand signals and drawing to communicate,” the Thai worker told BBC. Four of them would shake hands and make a hand gesture to say “keep on fighting” every day to boost their moral support, said Wichian.&nbsp;

<h2>New negotiations are underway?</h2>

Netanyahu made an&nbsp;appearance on TV&nbsp;to confirm on Saturday (Dec 16) that new negotiations were underway for release of&nbsp;hostages held by Hamas. A report by Reuters citing a source said that the chief of Israel’s Mossad spy agency, David Barnea, met Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Europe late on Friday.&nbsp;

The meeting indicates a possible new Gaza truce and a prisoner and hostage deal. Meanwhile, in Israel, in a speech followed by the news of the three&nbsp;hostages being mistakenly killed, the Israeli PM said that their deaths “broke the hearts of the nation” but vowed to “continue until victory”.&nbsp;

Netanyahu, in a televised speech, spoke about how the Israeli offensive in Gaza has helped clinch a partial hostage-release deal in November and vowed to maintain intense military pressure on Hamas.&nbsp;

“The instruction I am giving the negotiating team is predicated on this pressure, without which we have nothing,” said the Israeli PM.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Hamas, in a statement said that the group “affirms its position not to open any negotiations to exchange prisoners unless the aggression against our people stops once and for all.” It added, “The movement communicated this position to all mediators.”

<h2>Netanyahu government under pressure</h2>

Israelis continue to put pressure on the Netanyahu government to secure the release of the more than 100 hostages still in Gaza. Hundreds took to the streets in Tel Aviv after the news of the three hostages being mistakenly killed by IDF.

The demonstrators marched toward the IDF’s headquarters chanting, “Their time is running out! Bring them home now!”, quoted Times of Israel. “There is no victory until every last hostage is released!”&nbsp;

Tagit Tzin, the aunt of Dafna (15) and Ela Elyakim (9) who were freed from Gaza last month, told The Independent that while the families understood the military mistakenly killed the three hostages, she believes the error highlights how the only way to retrieve the hostages safely was through a truce deal, not military action.

“Only a ceasefire deal will bring the hostages out alive and not put our soldiers in danger like this,” said Tzin.&nbsp;

(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.

Three Israeli hostages accidently killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops were shirtless and waving a white flag when they were mistaken for being militants, according to an IDF official.

Three Israeli hostages accidently killed by Israel Defense Forces (IDF) troops were shirtless and waving a white flag when they were mistaken for being militants, according to an IDF official. Meanwhile, thousands of Israelis took to the streets in the city of Tel Aviv urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government to secure the release of hostages held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by troops Three Israeli hostages – Yotam Haim (28), Samer Talalka (22), and Alon Shamriz (26) – were killed in Gaza’s Shejaiya on Friday (Dec 15) around 10:00 am (local time), said an Israeli military official. The case, according to the IDF, was “against our rules of engagement” and had prompted an investigation at the “highest level”. The initial probe revealed that a soldier stationed at a building identified three suspicious figures emerging from another building around several dozen metres away, reported Times of Israel citing a senior IDF official. All three were shirtless and one of them was carrying a stick with a white cloth. According to the initial probe, the soldier thought it was an attempt by Hamas to lure them into a trap and immediately opened fire and shouted “terrorists!”. The soldier, according to the probe, killed two men, while the third one returned to the building he emerged from. Subsequently, the commander of the battalion went outside and asked the troops to stop firing. The third hostage was heard shouting “Help” in Hebrew and came out of the building and another soldier opened fire at him and fatally shot him, it was found after the initial probe. Wichian Temthong, a freed Thai hostage, told BBC, that he was “very shocked” and “saddened” to learn about the deaths of the three men with whom he had spent nearly 50 days in captivity. “We couldn’t speak each other’s languages, so we mostly did hand signals and drawing to communicate,” the Thai worker told BBC. Four of them would shake hands and make a hand gesture to say “keep on fighting” every day to boost their moral support, said Wichian. New negotiations are underway? Netanyahu made an appearance on TV to confirm on Saturday (Dec 16) that new negotiations were underway for release of hostages held by Hamas. A report by Reuters citing a source said that the chief of Israel’s Mossad spy agency, David Barnea, met Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Europe late on Friday. The meeting indicates a possible new Gaza truce and a prisoner and hostage deal. Meanwhile, in Israel, in a speech followed by the news of the three hostages being mistakenly killed, the Israeli PM said that their deaths “broke the hearts of the nation” but vowed to “continue until victory”. Netanyahu, in a televised speech, spoke about how the Israeli offensive in Gaza has helped clinch a partial hostage-release deal in November and vowed to maintain intense military pressure on Hamas. “The instruction I am giving the negotiating team is predicated on this pressure, without which we have nothing,” said the Israeli PM. Meanwhile, Hamas, in a statement said that the group “affirms its position not to open any negotiations to exchange prisoners unless the aggression against our people stops once and for all.” It added, “The movement communicated this position to all mediators.” Netanyahu government under pressure Israelis continue to put pressure on the Netanyahu government to secure the release of the more than 100 hostages still in Gaza. Hundreds took to the streets in Tel Aviv after the news of the three hostages being mistakenly killed by IDF. The demonstrators marched toward the IDF’s headquarters chanting, “Their time is running out! Bring them home now!”, quoted Times of Israel. “There is no victory until every last hostage is released!” Tagit Tzin, the aunt of Dafna (15) and Ela Elyakim (9) who were freed from Gaza last month, told The Independent that while the families understood the military mistakenly killed the three hostages, she believes the error highlights how the only way to retrieve the hostages safely was through a truce deal, not military action. “Only a ceasefire deal will bring the hostages out alive and not put our soldiers in danger like this,” said Tzin. (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.

Israeli hostages mistakenly killed by IDF were waving white flag when troops shot them, reveals initial probe

Israeli army&nbsp;in early hours of Saturday (Dec&nbsp;16, IST) said that its soldiers had "mistakenly" shot dead&nbsp;three hostages&nbsp;after considering them a threat.

"During combat in Shejaiya, the IDF (army) mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat. As a result, the troops fired toward them and they were killed," the army said in a statement, expressing "deep remorse over the tragic incident".

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דובר צה"ל: 
 
במהלך הלחימה בשג׳עייה, כוח צה״ל זיהה בשוגג שלושה חטופים ישראלים כאיום. כתוצאה מכך הכוח ירה לעברם והם נהרגו. 
 
במהלך סריקה ובדיקה של מרחב האירוע עלה חשד לגבי זהות ההרוגים. הגופות נלקחו לבדיקה בשטח ישראל ולאחריה התברר כי מדובר בשלושה חטופים ישראלים&gt;&gt;
— צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) <a href="https://twitter.com/idfonline/status/1735725778250170731?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"The IDF began reviewing the incident immediately... Immediate lessons from the event have been learned, which have been passed on to all IDF troops in the field," it added.

The army has identified two of the hostages and has withheld the name of the third hostage after a request from the family.

Yotam Haim, one of the dead hostages was abducted by Hamas terrorists during October 7 attack from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. The second hostage, Samer El-Talaqa was taken from Kibbutz Nir Am.

When it launched its attack on October 7, Hamas terrorists killed 1200 Israelis and took around 250 as hostages.

The Israeli army also said earlier on Friday that the body of&nbsp;Elia Toledano, a French-Israeli hostage was returned to Israel. Toledano was not part of the group of three hostages which were mistakenly shot by Israeli troops on Saturday.

<h2>Status of the war and main developments on&nbsp;Friday (Dec 15)</h2>

Amid the still raging Israel-Hamas war, Israel on Friday (Dec 15) reopened aid crossing into the Gaza Strip. Israel has been under increasing global pressure especially from the United States for restraint and for efforts to avoid civilian casualties. The Hamas-run health ministry in the Gaza strip has already claimed that the death toll in the enclave has crossed 18,000.&nbsp; Israel has announced that opening of the crossing would be a "temporary" measure.

Meanwhile, fierce fighting between the two sides continued on Friday. Hamas claimed to have blown up a house in Khan Yunis that the militant group said had Israeli soldiers inside.

Watch | Israel-Hamas tops list of Google searches in 2023

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AFP reported that in Rafah near the Egyptian border, Palestinians searched for possible survivors under buildings destroyed due to Israeli strikes.

Notable development of the day was interception of missiles over Jerusalem.&nbsp;The city has a powerful missile defence system.

Israel's army said on Friday that 119 soldiers had died in Gaza since its ground offensive began.

US, the biggest international backer of Israel which gives billions of dollars to the latter in military aid, has so far strongly backed Israel and has said that it had a right to defend itself. But top US officials including US President Joe Biden have expressed major concerns about the rising death toll in Gaza Strip.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/maersk-suspends-shipping-through-red-sea-strait-after-attacks-from-houthi-rebels-670091">Maersk suspends shipping through Red Sea strait after attacks from Houthi rebels</a>

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who met Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, met Palestinian Authority president Mahmud Abbas in West Bank on Friday.

Abbas asserted that Gaza should remain an "integral part" of the Palestinian state.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/45pc-of-israeli-air-to-ground-munitions-in-gaza-are-dumb-bombs-reveals-report-669941">45 pc of Israeli air-to-ground munitions in Gaza are 'dumb bombs', reveals report</a>

On Friday, there were calls from multiple Western nations including Britain, Canada, France and the European Union and Australia that Israel should "take concrete steps to halt unprecedented violence by Israeli settlers".&nbsp;

A journalist from Turkey's Anadolu news agency was assaulted by Israeli police in East Jerusalem when he tried to take photos of praying Palestinians. It was even reported that the police kicked him when he was on the ground in an injured state.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israeli army in early hours of Saturday (Dec 16, IST) said that its soldiers had "mistakenly" shot dead three hostages after considering them a threat. "During combat in Shejaiya, the IDF (army) mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat.

Israeli army in early hours of Saturday (Dec 16, IST) said that its soldiers had "mistakenly" shot dead three hostages after considering them a threat. "During combat in Shejaiya, the IDF (army) mistakenly identified three Israeli hostages as a threat. As a result, the troops fired toward them and they were killed," the army said in a statement, expressing "deep remorse over the tragic incident". דובר צה"ל: במהלך הלחימה בשג׳עייה, כוח צה״ל זיהה בשוגג שלושה חטופים ישראלים כאיום. כתוצאה מכך הכוח ירה לעברם והם נהרגו. במהלך סריקה ובדיקה של מרחב האירוע עלה חשד לגבי זהות ההרוגים. הגופות נלקחו לבדיקה בשטח ישראל ולאחריה התברר כי מדובר בשלושה חטופים ישראלים>> — צבא ההגנה לישראל (@idfonline) December 15, 2023 × "The IDF began reviewing the incident immediately... Immediate lessons from the event have been learned, which have been passed on to all IDF troops in the field," it added. The army has identified two of the hostages and has withheld the name of the third hostage after a request from the family. Yotam Haim, one of the dead hostages was abducted by Hamas terrorists during October 7 attack from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. The second hostage, Samer El-Talaqa was taken from Kibbutz Nir Am. When it launched its attack on October 7, Hamas terrorists killed 1200 Israelis and took around 250 as hostages. The Israeli army also said earlier on Friday that the body of Elia Toledano, a French-Israeli hostage was returned to Israel. Toledano was not part of the group of three hostages which were mistakenly shot by Israeli troops on Saturday. Status of the war and main developments on Friday (Dec 15) Amid the still raging Israel-Hamas war, Israel on Friday (Dec 15) reopened aid crossing into the Gaza Strip. Israel has been under increasing global pressure especially from the United States for restraint and for efforts to avoid civilian casualties. The Hamas-run health ministry in the Gaza strip has already claimed that the death toll in the enclave has crossed 18,000. Israel has announced that opening of the crossing would be a "temporary" measure. Meanwhile, fierce fighting between the two sides continued on Friday. Hamas claimed to have blown up a house in Khan Yunis that the militant group said had Israeli soldiers inside. Watch | Israel-Hamas tops list of Google searches in 2023 × AFP reported that in Rafah near the Egyptian border, Palestinians searched for possible survivors under buildings destroyed due to Israeli strikes. Notable development of the day was interception of missiles over Jerusalem. The city has a powerful missile defence system. Israel's army said on Friday that 119 soldiers had died in Gaza since its ground offensive began. US, the biggest international backer of Israel which gives billions of dollars to the latter in military aid, has so far strongly backed Israel and has said that it had a right to defend itself. But top US officials including US President Joe Biden have expressed major concerns about the rising death toll in Gaza Strip. Also Read | Maersk suspends shipping through Red Sea strait after attacks from Houthi rebels US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, who met Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday, met Palestinian Authority president Mahmud Abbas in West Bank on Friday. Abbas asserted that Gaza should remain an "integral part" of the Palestinian state. Also Read | 45 pc of Israeli air-to-ground munitions in Gaza are 'dumb bombs', reveals report On Friday, there were calls from multiple Western nations including Britain, Canada, France and the European Union and Australia that Israel should "take concrete steps to halt unprecedented violence by Israeli settlers". A journalist from Turkey's Anadolu news agency was assaulted by Israeli police in East Jerusalem when he tried to take photos of praying Palestinians. It was even reported that the police kicked him when he was on the ground in an injured state. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel troops ‘mistakenly’ shot dead three Israeli hostages, says army

Jonathan&nbsp;Samerano, a 21-year-old who was taken hostage after the Palestinian terrorists launched attack on October 7 has died in Hamas captivity, his family was notified, Israeli media reported on Monday (Dec 4).&nbsp;

The 21-year-old from Tel Aviv was at the Supernova music festival in southern Israel’s kibbutz Re’im when Hamas fighters attacked.

According to Israeli officials, hundreds were killed at the desert festival which was said to be one of the first places attacked by the Hamas terrorists on October 7.&nbsp;

<h2>About Samerano’s death</h2>

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informed the 21-year-old’s family of his death in Hamas’ captivity on Monday, reported the Israeli media.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nothing-will-happen-to-you-hamas-chief-yahya-sinwar-met-israeli-hostages-in-a-tunnel-663684">'Nothing will happen to you,' Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar met Israeli hostages in a tunnel</a>

He was reportedly kidnapped on October 7 after he had escaped the festival towards Kibbutz Be’eri before being shot and taken into Gaza.

According to Israeli media reports, he and his friend Maor Gratzyani allegedly sought rescue. Gratzyani’s body was found in the vicinity several days after the massacre.&nbsp;

Samerano, a DJ, was at the festival with his friends wearing a black tank top, green pants and a green hat. His family says he was always the life of any party and had not been heard from since 7:00 am (local time) that morning.&nbsp;

His parents were earlier told to assume he is in Gaza in Hamas captivity. Samerano is survived by his parents, Kobi and Ayelet, and his brother Yair.&nbsp;

“Jonathan was a magical kid, surrounded by friends, a DJ who only wanted to make music, grow, be happy and travel. He had so many dreams,” said members of his family, as quoted by Israeli newspaper, Haaretz.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-uk-to-conduct-surveillance-over-israel-gaza-to-search-for-hamas-hostage-sites-665647">Israel-Hamas war: UK to conduct air surveillance to locate Hamas hostage sites</a>

His funeral will be held on Monday evening in Tel Aviv, reported Jerusalem Post.

<h2>Supernova music festival massacre</h2>

According to Israeli officials, some 350 people were killed after Hamas attacked the music festival and many attendees were among those kidnapped on October 7. At least 1,200 Israelis were reportedly killed by Hamas terrorists.&nbsp;

Last month, Israel’s Channel 12 obtained the first Israeli police report into the attack which said that the Hamas terrorists had originally intended to attack nearby kibbutz Re’im as well as other villages near the Gaza border and found out about the music festival with drones and from the air as they parachuted into Israel.&nbsp;

(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.

Jonathan Samerano, a 21-year-old who was taken hostage after the Palestinian terrorists launched attack on October 7 has died in Hamas captivity, his family was notified, Israeli media reported on Monday (Dec 4).

Jonathan Samerano, a 21-year-old who was taken hostage after the Palestinian terrorists launched attack on October 7 has died in Hamas captivity, his family was notified, Israeli media reported on Monday (Dec 4). The 21-year-old from Tel Aviv was at the Supernova music festival in southern Israel’s kibbutz Re’im when Hamas fighters attacked. According to Israeli officials, hundreds were killed at the desert festival which was said to be one of the first places attacked by the Hamas terrorists on October 7. About Samerano’s death The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) informed the 21-year-old’s family of his death in Hamas’ captivity on Monday, reported the Israeli media. ALSO READ | 'Nothing will happen to you,' Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar met Israeli hostages in a tunnel He was reportedly kidnapped on October 7 after he had escaped the festival towards Kibbutz Be’eri before being shot and taken into Gaza. According to Israeli media reports, he and his friend Maor Gratzyani allegedly sought rescue. Gratzyani’s body was found in the vicinity several days after the massacre. Samerano, a DJ, was at the festival with his friends wearing a black tank top, green pants and a green hat. His family says he was always the life of any party and had not been heard from since 7:00 am (local time) that morning. His parents were earlier told to assume he is in Gaza in Hamas captivity. Samerano is survived by his parents, Kobi and Ayelet, and his brother Yair. “Jonathan was a magical kid, surrounded by friends, a DJ who only wanted to make music, grow, be happy and travel. He had so many dreams,” said members of his family, as quoted by Israeli newspaper, Haaretz. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: UK to conduct air surveillance to locate Hamas hostage sites His funeral will be held on Monday evening in Tel Aviv, reported Jerusalem Post. Supernova music festival massacre According to Israeli officials, some 350 people were killed after Hamas attacked the music festival and many attendees were among those kidnapped on October 7. At least 1,200 Israelis were reportedly killed by Hamas terrorists. Last month, Israel’s Channel 12 obtained the first Israeli police report into the attack which said that the Hamas terrorists had originally intended to attack nearby kibbutz Re’im as well as other villages near the Gaza border and found out about the music festival with drones and from the air as they parachuted into Israel. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: Jonatan Samerano, abducted from music fest, died in Hamas custody

The British defence ministry said on Saturday (Dec 2) that it would conduct surveillance flights over Israel and Gaza to search for locations used by Hamas for hostages.

The British defence ministry said on Saturday (Dec 2) that it would conduct surveillance flights over Israel and Gaza to search for locations used by Hamas for hostages. In a statement, the defence ministry said, "In support of the ongoing hostage rescue activity, the UK Ministry of Defence will conduct surveillance flights over the Eastern Mediterranean, including operating in air space over Israel and Gaza." The ministry said that the surveillance aircraft would be unarmed, adding they would not have a combat role, and would be tasked solely to locate hostages. "Only information relating to hostage rescue will be passed on to the relevant authorities responsible for hostage rescue," the statement added. Also read: Israeli officials knew about Hamas' attack plan over a year ago, says report The ministry also said that it had been working with partners across the region to secure the release of hostages, including British nationals, who were kidnapped. "The safety of British nationals is our utmost priority," it said. Govt: 12 British nationals killed since Oct 7 war Twelve British nationals have been killed since the war between Israel and Hamas started on Oct 7, Downing Street said, adding five were still missing. According to a report by The Guardian, some of the missing British nationals were believed to have been kidnapped, but the government did not confirm how many. A week after the conflict started, the government announced that military units would be deployed to the eastern Mediterranean “to support Israel, reinforce regional stability and prevent escalation”. On Friday, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak met Jordan’s King Abdullah II and said that Britain continued to press Israel on the need to adhere to International Humanitarian Law and contain settler violence in the West Bank. Also read: What after Gaza war ends? Israel plans to hunt down Hamas leaders globally, says report "The Prime Minister reiterated the UK’s commitment to working towards a lasting resolution to the conflict which delivers dignity, peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians," Sunak's office said in a statement. Sunak's remarks came as fighting renewed between Israel and Hamas following the expiration of a week-long truce that started on Nov 24. Since the truce ended, the Israeli military said that it conducted more than 400 strikes, with Hamas saying at least 240 people had been killed, the news agency AFP reported. Israeli bombardment on the Gaza Strip continued on Sunday. Hamas said that at least seven people were killed in an Israeli bombing early Sunday near Gaza's southern border with Egypt. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Hamas war: UK to conduct air surveillance to locate Hamas hostage sites

A Thai worker who was recently released by Hamas seven weeks after being taken hostage said the Palestinian militants beat up Israelis who were kept along with him, reported the Israeli media.&nbsp;

A plane carrying 17 Thai hostages freed by Hamas landed in Bangkok on Thursday (Nov 30) said the country's foreign ministry. Family members waited to greet the freed captives at Bangkok’s main airport.

At least 13 Thai nationals remain in Hamas captivity.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Thai Foreign Minister &nbsp;Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara was seen holding back tears as he welcomed fellow Thais released to Israel by Hamas.&nbsp;

<h2>Thai hostage recalls time in Hamas captivity</h2>

One of the Thais told&nbsp;the Israeli Army about his experience while in Hamas captivity and said that Israelis being held with him were being treated extremely harshly compared to the other foreign nationals.

“I was with Israelis, and there were guards all the time. The Jews who were with me were treated more harshly. Sometimes they were beaten with electrical cables,” said the Thai national, as quoted by Times of Israel.&nbsp;

He said the compound where they were held was “quite large”.

He recalled how he would walk around counting steps to pass the time, Israeli media quoted him as saying. “One pita a day. Sometimes there were cans of tuna that the four of us shared,” he said, adding that there was very little food for the hostages to eat.

He added, “Sometimes there was a piece of cheese. Once, they let us shower.”

<h2>‘We survived! We survived!’</h2>

Two more Thai workers were set free on Tuesday (Nov 28), bringing the total number of Thai nationals released to 23.

“We survived! We survived!” Thai workers cheered upon their arrival at Shamir Medical Center, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

“We are not part of the conflict,” Parnpree told Reuters in an interview later on Wednesday after an emotional meeting with the workers a day prior.&nbsp;

Parnpree also spoke about how he held talks with several countries in the Middle East with Hamas contacts to secure the release of Thai nationals who continue to remain in contact with him and send him updates about the release of hostages even before the news breaks.

“I went around to speak to various countries who can connect with the Hamas group to explain that the Thai workers are innocent, they are not involved in politics, they are not part of anyone's conflict, and they probably don't even know how the situation came to be, who's fighting with whom. They were there to earn a living,” the Thai FM told Reuters.&nbsp;

Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and Thai minister visited 17 freed Thai hostages at the medical centre where they were being treated upon their release.

“Israel is committed to bringing back all the hostages, Israelis and foreigners alike,” said Cohen.&nbsp;

(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.

A Thai worker who was recently released by Hamas seven weeks after being taken hostage said the Palestinian militants beat up Israelis who were kept along with him, reported the Israeli media.

A Thai worker who was recently released by Hamas seven weeks after being taken hostage said the Palestinian militants beat up Israelis who were kept along with him, reported the Israeli media. A plane carrying 17 Thai hostages freed by Hamas landed in Bangkok on Thursday (Nov 30) said the country's foreign ministry. Family members waited to greet the freed captives at Bangkok’s main airport. At least 13 Thai nationals remain in Hamas captivity. On Wednesday, Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara was seen holding back tears as he welcomed fellow Thais released to Israel by Hamas. Thai hostage recalls time in Hamas captivity One of the Thais told the Israeli Army about his experience while in Hamas captivity and said that Israelis being held with him were being treated extremely harshly compared to the other foreign nationals. “I was with Israelis, and there were guards all the time. The Jews who were with me were treated more harshly. Sometimes they were beaten with electrical cables,” said the Thai national, as quoted by Times of Israel. He said the compound where they were held was “quite large”. He recalled how he would walk around counting steps to pass the time, Israeli media quoted him as saying. “One pita a day. Sometimes there were cans of tuna that the four of us shared,” he said, adding that there was very little food for the hostages to eat. He added, “Sometimes there was a piece of cheese. Once, they let us shower.” ‘We survived! We survived!’ Two more Thai workers were set free on Tuesday (Nov 28), bringing the total number of Thai nationals released to 23. “We survived! We survived!” Thai workers cheered upon their arrival at Shamir Medical Center, as per Reuters. “We are not part of the conflict,” Parnpree told Reuters in an interview later on Wednesday after an emotional meeting with the workers a day prior. Parnpree also spoke about how he held talks with several countries in the Middle East with Hamas contacts to secure the release of Thai nationals who continue to remain in contact with him and send him updates about the release of hostages even before the news breaks. “I went around to speak to various countries who can connect with the Hamas group to explain that the Thai workers are innocent, they are not involved in politics, they are not part of anyone's conflict, and they probably don't even know how the situation came to be, who's fighting with whom. They were there to earn a living,” the Thai FM told Reuters. Israeli Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and Thai minister visited 17 freed Thai hostages at the medical centre where they were being treated upon their release. “Israel is committed to bringing back all the hostages, Israelis and foreigners alike,” said Cohen. (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.

Israel-Hamas war: Freed Thai hostage recalls experience in Hamas captivity, says Israelis were beaten

Seventy-eight-year-old Ruthy Munder was among the hostages who were released by Hamas, a Palestine-based group that has been designated&nbsp;a terrorist organisation by many nations including the US and the UK. She spoke&nbsp;about the darkness, shortage of food, poor sanitation, and other ordeals she faced when she was held hostage by Hamas.&nbsp;

Sky News posted a video crediting Channel 13 News Israel, in which Munder can be heard saying that she spent the entirety of her time with her daughter, Keren, and grandson, Ohad Munder-Zichri. She also said that Ohad celebrated his ninth birthday in captivity.

Munder was seen in a video released by the Israeli government on Saturday (Nov 25) of those who were released from captivity in Gaza on Friday.

Hamas has released around 60 Israeli women and children as part of the deal which took effect on Friday. They have also released several other foreign nationals. In return, Israel freed Palestinian detainees from prisons. 
&nbsp; 
But more than 160 other hostages taken in the Hamas attacks on October 7 are still held in the Gaza Strip. Dozens have even gone missing.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-israel-are-missing-in-gaza-where-are-they-are-they-even-alive-664197">Qatar says dozens of Israeli hostages have gone missing in Gaza</a>&nbsp;

<h2>'Poor nutrition and solitary confinement'&nbsp;</h2>

Israeli hostages have not spoken directly to the media about the conditions they were kept in. The hospitals have been asked to not reveal any details about the hostages and their experiences.&nbsp;

But some details are emerging. As quoted by the news agency AFP, Ronit Zaidenstein, head of the medical team at Shamir Medical Centre where 17 released Thai nationals were treated, said they had been fed "very unnutritious food" in captivity.&nbsp;

"The people who came to us lost a significant amount of their body weight in such a short time - 10 per cent or more."&nbsp;

Margarita Mashavi, a doctor at Wolfson Medical Centre, which is one of the main facilities caring for freed hostages, said those she spoke to described being kept several stories underground. The remarks came in an interview which is now taken offline.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-frees-12-more-hostages-in-exchange-for-30-palestinian-detainees-in-latest-swap-664073">Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees in latest swap</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

"They didn't give them light. They gave it to them for only two hours," she was quoted as saying by the Ynet news site on Monday.&nbsp;

The patient said her meals consisted of "rice, canned hummus and fava beans, and sometimes salted cheese with pita, but not more than that. No fruit, no vegetables, no eggs," she said.&nbsp;

"Even when they asked for a pencil or pen to write in order to pass the time, the Hamas men didn't allow it because they were afraid they would transmit information in writing, so they were without television or reading, and therefore passed the time only in conversation with one another," Mashavi said.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Palestinian movements flag 'truce violations by the occupier'&nbsp;

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<h2>'Horrible conditions'</h2>

Esther Yaeli, the grandmother of 12-year-old French-Israeli boy Eitan Yahalomi, who was released on Monday, told the Walla news website he was held in solitary confinement for 16 days.

"The days that he was alone were horrible," she said. "Now Eitan appears very withdrawn. The noises of the bombs hurt him, his ears hurt for a very long time," Yaeli said he told her.&nbsp;

Hagar Mizrahi, who is the head of the Israeli health ministry's operations for returning hostages, told AFP that they had been held in "horrible conditions" and that "the medical consequences are pretty clear".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Seventy-eight-year-old Ruthy Munder was among the hostages who were released by Hamas, a Palestine-based group that has been designated a terrorist organisation by many nations including the US and the UK.

Seventy-eight-year-old Ruthy Munder was among the hostages who were released by Hamas, a Palestine-based group that has been designated a terrorist organisation by many nations including the US and the UK. She spoke about the darkness, shortage of food, poor sanitation, and other ordeals she faced when she was held hostage by Hamas. Sky News posted a video crediting Channel 13 News Israel, in which Munder can be heard saying that she spent the entirety of her time with her daughter, Keren, and grandson, Ohad Munder-Zichri. She also said that Ohad celebrated his ninth birthday in captivity. Munder was seen in a video released by the Israeli government on Saturday (Nov 25) of those who were released from captivity in Gaza on Friday. Hamas has released around 60 Israeli women and children as part of the deal which took effect on Friday. They have also released several other foreign nationals. In return, Israel freed Palestinian detainees from prisons. But more than 160 other hostages taken in the Hamas attacks on October 7 are still held in the Gaza Strip. Dozens have even gone missing. Also read: Qatar says dozens of Israeli hostages have gone missing in Gaza 'Poor nutrition and solitary confinement' Israeli hostages have not spoken directly to the media about the conditions they were kept in. The hospitals have been asked to not reveal any details about the hostages and their experiences. But some details are emerging. As quoted by the news agency AFP, Ronit Zaidenstein, head of the medical team at Shamir Medical Centre where 17 released Thai nationals were treated, said they had been fed "very unnutritious food" in captivity. "The people who came to us lost a significant amount of their body weight in such a short time - 10 per cent or more." Margarita Mashavi, a doctor at Wolfson Medical Centre, which is one of the main facilities caring for freed hostages, said those she spoke to described being kept several stories underground. The remarks came in an interview which is now taken offline. Also read: Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees in latest swap "They didn't give them light. They gave it to them for only two hours," she was quoted as saying by the Ynet news site on Monday. The patient said her meals consisted of "rice, canned hummus and fava beans, and sometimes salted cheese with pita, but not more than that. No fruit, no vegetables, no eggs," she said. "Even when they asked for a pencil or pen to write in order to pass the time, the Hamas men didn't allow it because they were afraid they would transmit information in writing, so they were without television or reading, and therefore passed the time only in conversation with one another," Mashavi said. Watch: Palestinian movements flag 'truce violations by the occupier' × 'Horrible conditions' Esther Yaeli, the grandmother of 12-year-old French-Israeli boy Eitan Yahalomi, who was released on Monday, told the Walla news website he was held in solitary confinement for 16 days. "The days that he was alone were horrible," she said. "Now Eitan appears very withdrawn. The noises of the bombs hurt him, his ears hurt for a very long time," Yaeli said he told her. Hagar Mizrahi, who is the head of the Israeli health ministry's operations for returning hostages, told AFP that they had been held in "horrible conditions" and that "the medical consequences are pretty clear". (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

Darkness, hunger & poor sanitation: Hamas kept Israeli hostages in ‘horrible conditions’

Israel claimed that Hamas militants kidnapped around 240 hostages when they launched the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-released-hostages-handed-over-to-red-cross-in-gaza-664012">surprise attack on October 7</a>, but in a recent report, Qatar said that at least 40 women and children are not with Hamas, and unaccounted for.&nbsp;

Thousands were killed on both sides during the war which started after the October 7 attack, but a four-day true came as a brief respite which was extended for 48 hours. As part of the deal, Israel returned Palestinian detainees from prisons, and Hamas agreed to free some hostages.&nbsp;

A total of 60 Israeli hostages have been freed so far, and the families are hoping that the authorities will free the rest of them. But amidst the truce, the report of missing hostages is concerning. Qatar's PM, a mediator in the negotiations, told The Financial Times on Sunday that Hamas was unable to locate some 40 women and children being held.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-frees-12-more-hostages-in-exchange-for-30-palestinian-detainees-in-latest-swap-664073">Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees in latest swap</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Where are the hostages?&nbsp;</h2>

Hamas leaders have previously accused other militant groups for some&nbsp;hostages going missing. They have claimed that they sent their militants to Israel to get their own captives on October 7.&nbsp;

Qatar's claim aligns with what Hamas' rival militant group, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, has said. As per reports, it claimed that it is holding Israeli 30 hostages.&nbsp;

As quoted by Sky News, Hans-Jakob Schindler, who is a senior director at the transatlantic think tank the Counter Extremism Project, said that the situation is "terribly unclear".&nbsp;

Watch: WHO&nbsp;warns Gaza over rising diseases, says disease could kill more people than bombs&nbsp;

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"It's important to note that Islamic Jihad and Hamas don't have a cooperative relationship - they're actually competitors," he told the outlet.&nbsp;

"So it's not entirely clear if Hamas can get Islamic Jihad to release any of the hostages it may be holding. And it seems it wasn't just them and Hamas involved in the 7 October attack. There's been a well-developed smuggling economy in Gaza for decades - long before Hamas took control - organised by networks of crime families."

"So it's possible hostages are neither under the control of Hamas nor Islamic Jihad - but these crime organisations," he added. Some hostages are probably being held by independent criminals. But there's no confirmation.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-invites-criticism-for-chanting-crush-zionism-at-pro-palestinian-protest-in-sweden-664075">Greta Thunberg invites criticism for chanting 'crush Zionism' at pro-Palestinian protest in Sweden</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Are they even alive?&nbsp;</h2>

The reports have established one thing,&nbsp;that some of the hostages are unaccounted for, but there's a possibility that Hamas lied to Qatar to indirectly mislead Israel. There's no concrete evidence for all the claims related to the missing hostages. &nbsp;

Hamas has already claimed that between 50 and 60 hostages have been killed in airstrikes from late October. They haven't provided evidence to support their claims.&nbsp;

Hence, the fate of dozens of hostages is not clear yet as their families hope and pray for their safe return.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

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.

Israel claimed that Hamas militants kidnapped around 240 hostages when they launched the surprise attack on October 7, but in a recent report, Qatar said that at least 40 women and children are not with Hamas, and unaccounted for.

Israel claimed that Hamas militants kidnapped around 240 hostages when they launched the surprise attack on October 7, but in a recent report, Qatar said that at least 40 women and children are not with Hamas, and unaccounted for. Thousands were killed on both sides during the war which started after the October 7 attack, but a four-day true came as a brief respite which was extended for 48 hours. As part of the deal, Israel returned Palestinian detainees from prisons, and Hamas agreed to free some hostages. A total of 60 Israeli hostages have been freed so far, and the families are hoping that the authorities will free the rest of them. But amidst the truce, the report of missing hostages is concerning. Qatar's PM, a mediator in the negotiations, told The Financial Times on Sunday that Hamas was unable to locate some 40 women and children being held. Also read: Hamas frees 12 more hostages in exchange for 30 Palestinian detainees in latest swap Where are the hostages? Hamas leaders have previously accused other militant groups for some hostages going missing. They have claimed that they sent their militants to Israel to get their own captives on October 7. Qatar's claim aligns with what Hamas' rival militant group, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, has said. As per reports, it claimed that it is holding Israeli 30 hostages. As quoted by Sky News, Hans-Jakob Schindler, who is a senior director at the transatlantic think tank the Counter Extremism Project, said that the situation is "terribly unclear". Watch: WHO warns Gaza over rising diseases, says disease could kill more people than bombs × "It's important to note that Islamic Jihad and Hamas don't have a cooperative relationship - they're actually competitors," he told the outlet. "So it's not entirely clear if Hamas can get Islamic Jihad to release any of the hostages it may be holding. And it seems it wasn't just them and Hamas involved in the 7 October attack. There's been a well-developed smuggling economy in Gaza for decades - long before Hamas took control - organised by networks of crime families." "So it's possible hostages are neither under the control of Hamas nor Islamic Jihad - but these crime organisations," he added. Some hostages are probably being held by independent criminals. But there's no confirmation. Also read: Greta Thunberg invites criticism for chanting 'crush Zionism' at pro-Palestinian protest in Sweden Are they even alive? The reports have established one thing, that some of the hostages are unaccounted for, but there's a possibility that Hamas lied to Qatar to indirectly mislead Israel. There's no concrete evidence for all the claims related to the missing hostages. Hamas has already claimed that between 50 and 60 hostages have been killed in airstrikes from late October. They haven't provided evidence to support their claims. Hence, the fate of dozens of hostages is not clear yet as their families hope and pray for their safe return. (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.

Qatar says dozens of Israeli hostages have gone missing in Gaza

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