Published: Jul 18, 2024, 05:20 IST | Updated: Jul 18, 2024, 05:20 IST
At least thirteen female hostages including five IDF soldiers have been in Hamas’ captivity since October last year. Mossad Chief David Barnea has cautioned the Israeli Government that the young female hostages, aged 18-39, don’t have time for prolonged negotiations amidst fears of sexual violence against them. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly dismissed any deal with Hamas that could bring back the hostages and instead prioritized military operations over negotiations.