In a major diplomatic breakthrough, 50 hostages, including 30 children, who were taken by the terrorist group Hamas during its October 7th assault on Israel, are set to be released. The agreement, brokered with the assistance of Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar and President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt, involves a series of concessions from Israel to ensure the safe release of the hostages.
As part of the deal, Israel has agreed to a four day truce, release 140 imprisoned Palestinian women and children, and allow 300 aid trucks into Gaza each day during the ceasefire.
President Joe Biden expressed his relief at the news of the deal in a statement. “I welcome the deal to secure the release of hostages taken by the terrorist group Hamas during its brutal assault against Israel on October 7th,” said President Biden. He thanked the leaders of Qatar and Egypt for their critical roles in the negotiations and acknowledged the commitment of Prime Minister Netanyahu and the Israeli government to support the extended pause for the deal’s implementation.
President Biden emphasized the importance of fully implementing all aspects of the deal and pledged to continue working closely with the involved leaders to ensure its success. He also highlighted the ongoing efforts to secure the release of all American hostages held around the world.
Secretary of State Antony Blinken echoed the President’s sentiments, welcoming the deal and expressing gratitude for the tireless diplomacy that led to this outcome. He thanked Egypt, Qatar, and Israel for their cooperation and reiterated the U.S. commitment to continue working towards the release of all hostages held by Hamas.
“While this deal marks significant progress, we will not rest as long as Hamas continues to hold hostages in Gaza,” stated Secretary Blinken, emphasizing the U.S. government’s unwavering dedication to the safety and security of Americans overseas.
