Hamas Frees 2 More Hostages from Israel

There are reports that Hamas intended to release two more hostages just days after freeing an American mother and daughter duo.

A source told Newsweek, on the condition of anonymity, that the deal to release the two hostages - who were described as elderly - was made possible via mediation by Qatar and Egypt.

Hamas Frees 2 More Hostages from Israel — An incoming Israeli military strike on buildings in Gaza City, as seen from the border area on October 23, 2023 near Sderot, Israel. As Israel prepares to invade the Gaza Strip in its campaign to vanquish Hamas, the Palestinian militant group that launched a deadly attack in southern Israel on October 7th, worries are growing of a wider war with multiple fronts, including at the country's northern border with Lebanon. Countries have scrambled to evacuate their citizens from Israel, and Israel has begun relocating residents to some communities on its northern border. Meanwhile, hundreds of thousands of residents of northern Gaza have fled to the southern part of the territory, following Israel's vow to launch a ground invasion. Leon Neal/Getty Images

Hamas Release Elderly Hostages for 'Humanitarian,' 'Health' Reasons

Hamas's Al-Qassam Brigades spokesman Abu Obaida issued a statement crediting Egypt and Qatar, alleging that Israel "has refused since last Friday to accept their receipt and is still neglecting the issue of prisoners."

"We have decided to release them for compelling humanitarian and health reasons, despite the occupation committing more than 8 violations of the procedures that were agreed upon with the mediator brothers that the occupation would adhere to during this day to complete the handover process," he said.

The release came days after Judith and Natalie Raanan were released for "humanitarian reasons."

The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has yet to confirm or deny Hamas's claims.

This is a developing story. Please follow HNGN for more updates.