U.S. Warns Hamas Over Hostage Parade, Demands Immediate Release.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, echoing President Donald Trump’s statement, has made it clear that Hamas must release all hostages without delay. After spending 490 days in captivity, Israeli hostages Eli Sharabi, Ohad Ben Ami, and Or Levi have finally returned home. However, the U.S. government has expressed strong disapproval of the way Hamas handled their release, particularly the public spectacle in Gaza.
Israel Confirms Release of Three Hostages
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Saturday that three hostages—Ohad Ben Ami, Eli Sharabi, and Or Levi—were handed over to the Red Cross following negotiations. The Red Cross then transported them safely to Israel. Israeli officials have described their release as a small step forward but insisted that all remaining hostages must be freed.
IDF and Shin Bet Welcome Freed Hostages
Upon their arrival in Israel, the hostages were received by IDF and Shin Bet officials. Their frail condition raised concerns among their families and medical personnel. The hostages were immediately taken for medical evaluations to assess their physical and mental health.
Hamas Organizes Public Event Before Release
According to a Times of Israel report, Hamas forced the three hostages to participate in a public event before their release. A masked Hamas operative delivered speeches at the ceremony, after which the hostages were handed certificates and paraded on stage in front of thousands of people in Gaza. The spectacle was condemned by Israeli and U.S. officials, who called it a violation of humanitarian norms.
Families Express Concern Over Hostages’ Health
When the freed hostages reunited with their families, emotions ran high. Ohad Ben Ami’s mother, Michal Cohen, was heartbroken to see her son visibly weak and aged beyond his years. Similarly, Or Levi’s brother, Tel Levi, expressed deep pain over his brother’s deteriorated condition. Despite their suffering, families remain determined to push for the release of all hostages still held by Hamas.
Israel Prepares to Release 183 Palestinian Prisoners
As part of the ongoing negotiations, Israel is set to release 183 Palestinian prisoners from Keziot Prison in the Negev and Ofer Prison in the West Bank. Among these prisoners, 18 are serving life sentences. Of the total 183 detainees, 111 were captured during the recent conflict, while the remaining 72 are from the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
U.S. Demands Immediate and Unconditional Release of Hostages
The Biden administration has warned Hamas that the public parading of hostages is unacceptable and has reiterated demands for the unconditional release of all Israeli captives. The U.S. also criticized Hamas’ tactics of using hostages as leverage and reaffirmed its support for Israel’s security and hostage recovery efforts.
With international pressure mounting, negotiations between Israel and Hamas continue, but tensions remain high. Families of the remaining hostages hope that diplomatic efforts will lead to their loved ones’ safe return.
Read this also.
US Lawmakers Urge Trump to Recognize Taiwan, End One China Policy.
Trump Imposes Sanctions on International Criminal Court.
My Introduction.
