Captive Israeli Women Freed as Hamas Eases Tensions

Captive Israeli Women Freed as Hamas Eases Tensions

Hamas releases two more hostages seized in assault on Israel

Hamas has released two more Israeli women who were among the numerous hostages captured during their recent assault on Israel. This development comes amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to ease the escalating tensions in the Middle East.

The two Israeli women, identified as Nurit Cooper and Yocheved Lifshitz, were abducted by Hamas militants during the attack on southern Israel on October 7. Regrettably, their husbands, who were also taken captive at the same time, remain in captivity in Gaza.

The International Committee of the Red Cross played a role in facilitating the release, with their spokesperson, Chris Hanger, confirming the transport of the two hostages out of Gaza. He expressed the Red Cross's readiness to assist in future releases.

Cooper, aged 79, and Lifshitz, aged 85, are currently en route to a medical center in Israel, where they will be reunited with their family members. Israel expressed gratitude to Egypt and the Red Cross for their contributions to the rescue effort.

This release follows the liberation of two other female hostages on a previous occasion, bringing the total number of captives freed by Hamas to four. Negotiations are reportedly ongoing for the release of approximately 50 more hostages held in Gaza.

As of the latest update from Israel's military, at least 222 people are still being held captive in Gaza, with Hamas asserting control over about 200 of them. There are concerns that other factions in the coastal enclave might also be holding additional hostages.

The release of these hostages occurs in the midst of strenuous diplomatic endeavors aimed at preventing the Israel-Hamas conflict from escalating into a wider and more devastating confrontation. There are fears that other groups, such as the Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, could become involved in the fighting.

Notably, Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on Israel earlier this month, resulting in the deaths of over 1,400 people and injuries to more than 5,400, according to Israeli officials. In retaliation, Israel has reported killing 5,087 people and injuring 15,273 in its bombardment of Gaza. The humanitarian situation in the enclave has deteriorated due to the siege imposed by Israel.

The fate of the hostages in Gaza is one of several factors contributing to the delay of Israel's anticipated ground invasion of the impoverished enclave, despite repeated indications from Israeli officials that such an operation is forthcoming. Prime Minister Netanyahu has emphasized Israel's commitment to returning all abducted and missing persons.