"The fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza, who are protected under international law, is of international concern," they said in a statement. "We strongly support the ongoing mediation efforts in order to bring our people home." Hamas and other militant groups took 250 people hostage on 7 October when they overran towns and kibbutzim next to Gaza, killing an estimated 1,136 people. After intensive negotiations mediated by Qatar and Egypt, 105 were released as part of a hostage deal last November in exchange for a pause in fighting.
The call to free the hostages followed intensifying Israeli airstrikes on Rafah, as well as Khan Younis.
Palestinian medics reported that the strikes in Rafah killed six including a journalist, amid fears of an impending Israeli ground assault.
Israeli officials including the prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, have claimed that military force, including a planned invasion of Rafah, will allow Israel to defeat Hamas militants and bring hostages home.
This story is from the April 26, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
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This story is from the April 26, 2024 edition of The Guardian.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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