As the battle between Israel and Hamas reaches six months, the plight of approximately 130 Israeli civilians held hostage in Gaza has become a rallying cry for demonstrators in Washington. On the Sunday of April 7, a rally was held, attended by family members of the hostages, including Keith's daughter Ellen Segal and the recently released captive Aviva Segal. After 51 days in captivity, Aviva spoke at the rally, expressing that she felt devoid of human rights and feared for her life, yet she returned home.
According to sources, Israel's opposition leader Yair Lapid shared plans to meet with the Biden administration. Lapid emphasized the need to do everything possible to bring those held back home.
A UN expert team reports that Hamas militants infiltrated Israel on October 7, executing 1,200 individuals and committing acts of sexual violence against some victims.
Israeli Civilians Released in a Settlement Agreement
The militants held 253 hostages, including children, senior citizens, civilians, and soldiers. Nearly half were released at the end of November as part of a settlement agreement. Further peace talks on Sunday in Egypt have raised hopes for the release of the remaining dozens of hostages. Health officials reported that the Israeli counterattack in Gaza has resulted in over 33,000 deaths.
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The Conflict Started in October Last Year
Hamas fighters launched attacks on Israeli towns, military bases, and border cities on October 7. The assailants abducted nearly 240 Israeli and foreign nationals and transported them to Gaza. The surprise offensive left Israeli civilians with no time to react, and shooters took the lives of dozens. Approximately 360 deaths occurred at the Nova Festival site, where Israelis unaware of the assault were celebrating the festival. It was here that Hamas fighters took 240 people hostage, including Israeli and foreign nationals.
