In a recent development, Hamas has released two American hostages, Judith Tai Raanan and Natalie Shoshana Raanan, who are American-Israeli citizens. Both are from Illinois and are family members of former NBC News correspondent Martin Fletcher. Thaeir release was confirmed by Israel, and they are currently receiving necessary medical treatment.
President Joe Biden expressed his gratitude to the government of Qatar for its assistance in securing the release of the hostages. Meanwhile, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has confirmed that the two hostages are receiving medical attention.
This positive news comes amid ongoing challenges in the region, including a dire humanitarian crisis. The 2 million residents of Gaza have been facing a “complete siege” by Israel for two weeks, and the United Nations has called for a cease-fire to allow an aid convoy to enter. The situation in the Gaza Strip is critical, with more than 3,700 people killed and over 13,000 injured. In Israel, the conflict has resulted in 1,400 casualties and 3,500 wounded.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/live-blog/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-aid-trucks-wait-cross-gaza-another-night-rcna121348
Edited: Sakshi Semwal