On October 7, 2023, several Hamas terrorists infiltrated southern Israel and managed to take several hundred people back to Gaza as hostages, in addition to murdering over 1,200 people.
Their safety has been the subject of great concern to the Israeli public, who campaign for their release and safety as the IDF's war on Hamas continues. So far, several hostages have been released, most of them due to a ceasefire and prisoner exchange.
It is currently unknown exactly how many hostages are currently alive in Gaza, though most estimates place it at over 100 at the time of writing.
Reports also surfaced of an Israeli delegation heading to Cairo to further talks, which have since been denied by Israeli officials.
Knesset member Michal Woldiger expressed an opinion contrary to much of Israel's senior leadership - that she would support ending the war for the hostages's safe return.
Current progress in the talks remains stuck for the time being, as the two sides remain at an impasse over a couple of Israeli demands.
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Emily Damari is the last living British-Israeli hostage being held by Hamas in Gaza.
Since October 7, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews has distributed over 132 million dollars towards enhancing the security of the civilian home front.
Despite the reported sticking points, “the status of ongoing negotiations in Doha is excellent," Hamas sources said.
The rule of silence does not apply to the families of the hostages, who need to speak out to keep the issue on the agenda and ensure it remains a top priority.
One would expect Israel's senior defense officials to stand behind Netanyahu in solidarity. Netanyahu stood alone.
“Matan, your mother is here, and so are we until you return," protester signs read.
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