President Joe Biden affirmed on Monday that discussions regarding a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas cannot proceed until all the hostages held by the militant group are released.
Responding to a question about whether he supports a similar ceasefire to the one in 2021, Biden stated, “Hostages must be released, and then we can talk.” This statement was made during an appearance on the X platform.
Biden emphasized, “The United States remains committed to ensuring that civilians in Gaza receive food, water, medical care, and other assistance, without benefiting Hamas.”
On Monday, the military wing of Hamas, known as the Qassam Brigades, announced the release of two new hostages. They cited “compelling humanitarian reasons” for this action. In a statement, the Qassam Brigades explained, “We released them due to overwhelming humanitarian and moral reasons, despite more than eight violations committed by the occupation [Israel] against the agreed-upon procedures for their release.”
According to Israeli news source “i24 NEWS,” Hamas is expected to release approximately 50 hostages of foreign nationalities in the coming hours, unless new obstacles arise. The Red Cross is on its way to receive around 50 of these foreign hostages through Qatari mediation with Hamas. An Israeli official told American media that the hostages hold dual nationalities.
Sources indicate that the hostage transfer operation will take place in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza Strip. This development comes after the Israeli military ceased airstrikes in the area.
The situation remains fluid, and further developments are awaited as efforts continue to secure the release of all hostages and pave the way for ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
