The Number of Suspected Hamas Hostages Rises as the World Continues to Rally for Their Release
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An Israeli Defense Forces spokesman says Hamas is holding 212 hostages, up from the previous estimate of 203.
The hostages were taken on Oct. 7 as part of a surprise attack near the Gaza Strip that killed more than 1,400 Israelis.
“We are working in all ways to free the hostages and bring them home,” IDF spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari said.
Israel has struck back at the terrorist group Hamas, leading to more violence and casualties. According to The Hill, some 4,385 Palestinians are dead, and another 13,561 people have been wounded in the conflict.
Most recently, IDF struck tunnels where Hamas and Islamic Jihad operatives were hiding, military sites, observation positions, and mortar and anti-tank guided missile positions.
The Times of Israel also reported that drones from both Gaza and Lebanon were shot down thanks to the Iron Dome air defense system.
Meanwhile, Hamas released U.S. hostages Judith Raanan and her daughter, Natali Raanan.
Ten other American citizens are thought to be among the 212 hostages still with Hamas tourists.
Officials have said many of the hostages may be being held in the warren of tunnels under Gaza that Israeli troops call the “Gaza Metro.”
U.S. officials “have been working around the clock to free American citizens who were taken hostage by Hamas, and we have not ceased our efforts to secure the release of those who are still being held,” President Joe Biden said Friday.
Eight Germans are also among the hostages, as well as at least seven British nationals. France has also said it is missing citizens.
Hamas’ armed wing said on Oct.16 that kidnapped non-Israelis were “guests” who would be released “when circumstances on the ground allow.”
Hundreds of demonstrators rallied in New York’s Times Square last week to demand the release of hostages, holding billboards showing the faces of people believed to be held. The event was called “Bring Them Home Now.”
“In the wake of the unfathomable recent violence in Israel, with Hamas massacring more than 1,300 Israelis and kidnapping 200 others, it’s time to shine a light on the human side of this ongoing crisis and rally international support,” reads a statement from the Combat Antisemitism Movement, which led the event.
Photo Courtesy: ©Getty Images/Michael M. Santiago / Staff
Video Courtesy: Reuters via YouTube
Amanda Casanova is a writer living in Dallas, Texas. She has covered news for ChristianHeadlines.com since 2014. She has also contributed to The Houston Chronicle, U.S. News and World Report and IBelieve.com. She blogs at The Migraine Runner.
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