Israel-Hamas conflict: Two US hostages released by Hamas, confirms IDF

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) have confirmed the release of two US nationals who had been held captive by Hamas and that they are now in the hands of Israeli troops as a result of the current confrontation between Israel and Hamas.

According to the sources, the IDF harshly criticised Hamas for continuing to detain about 200 other hostages, though.

Taking it to their official X handle, IDF spokesperson, RAdm. Daniel Hagari informed, “Hamas presents itself to the world as having returned the women they took hostage on humanitarian grounds, while Hamas is in fact a murderous terrorist organization that right now is holding infants, children, women and elderly people hostage in the Gaza Strip, and continuing to commit crimes against humanity.”

“Hamas presents itself to the world as having returned the women they took hostage on humanitarian grounds, while Hamas is in fact a murderous terrorist organization that right now is holding infants, children, women and elderly people hostage in the Gaza Strip, and continuing to…

— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 20, 2023

As per sources, the two Americans who were released have been identified as Judith Tai Raanan and her 17-year-old daughter, Natali Raanan, both from Chicago.

According to a statement from their family, both of them have been released on “humanitarian grounds” due to poor health of the elder lady.

Furthermore, the release will take part as the part of negotiations between Israel and Hamas. Meanwhile, during a press briefing on Friday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed gratitude to the Qatar government for their assistance.

"I wanna thank the government of Qatar for their very important assistance. When I was in Israel last week, I met with the families of US citizens that Hamas has taken hostage," Blinken said.

Adding to this, POTUS mentioned on X, “I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal. Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted for Americans.”

I just spoke with the two Americans released today after being held hostage by Hamas. I let them know that their government will fully support them as they recover and heal.

Jill and I will continue holding close in our hearts all the families of unaccounted for Americans. pic.twitter.com/oXk6gfrD8M

— President Biden (@POTUS) October 20, 2023

The IDF added that they are still trying to return the other hostages to Israel. "IDF is still preparing for the next stages of the fighting, which is expected to include a major ground offensive. The fighting is likely to last many more weeks," IDF Spokesperson Hagari added.