Staff Reports
The concluding set of hostages, consisting of ten Israelis and four Thais, crossed into Israeli territory on Thursday morning as the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas concluded. Hamas had previously released two Israeli women, also holding Russian citizenship, the night before. These hostages walked alongside Hamas militants amid jeers from a large group of Palestinians in Gaza, witnessed by a Red Cross van participating in the event.
Among the liberated hostages were women, children, and male teenagers, each with harrowing stories. For example, 13-year-old Gali Tarshansky was abducted by Hamas after they had already murdered her brother, Lior. Yarden Roman-Gat escaped Hamas custody, passing her baby to her husband, who successfully evaded the terrorists. Roman-Gat drew gunfire towards herself to allow her family to hide but was eventually recaptured.
Every day when the little Israeli kids and elderly women hostages are released from the hell of Hamas a mob of Gaza a gather around, not to wish them farewell— but to wish them death. It’s a torture to watch.
— Hen Mazzig (@HenMazzig) November 29, 2023
The final release of hostages was deliberately delayed by Hamas, seemingly to pressure Israel to extend the truce by an additional four days. Ultimately, the ten hostages were handed over to the Red Cross just an hour before midnight. The fate of the Bibas family, known for their distinctive red hair, remains uncertain, as Hamas claimed to have transferred them to another terrorist group, alleging their death in an Israeli airstrike. Israel is investigating these claims and holds Hamas responsible for the Bibas family's safety.
During the October 7 terror attack, Hamas abducted around 240 hostages and caused approximately 1,200 deaths. Over the six-day pause in fighting, 63 Israelis were released, in addition to four hostages before the truce. Hamas also released 23 Thai hostages and one Filipino hostage. The Israel Defense Forces report 159 hostages still in Gaza.
In exchange for the hostages, Israel released 210 Palestinian terror convicts, mostly women and children. The truce's end raises questions about a potential resumption of military operations. Israel confirmed the killing of three Hamas terrorists in Gaza and two Palestinian terrorists in the West Bank during the truce. The U.S. and Qatar are working on a truce extension. While the Israeli government pledged to continue the fight against Hamas post-truce, they enjoy strong support from the Israeli public.
In conclusion, the release of the final group of hostages signifies a victory for Israel and underscores their commitment to protecting citizens. The international community must hold Hamas accountable for their terrorist activities, ensuring justice for both Israelis and Palestinians. The Israeli public remains united in supporting the government's efforts against Hamas, fostering hope for lasting peace through steadfast leadership.
