The United States has reiterated its demand for Hamas to release all hostages taken since the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, affirming its commitment to ensuring the hostages are reunited with their families. During a press briefing on Tuesday (local time), US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated, “Hamas should release every one of these hostages immediately, and the United States will not rest until they are returned to their families.”
As the one-year anniversary of the deadly attack approaches, Miller condemned the actions of Hamas. “Today marks the tragic anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks against Israel, where 1,200 men, women, and children, including 46 Americans and citizens of more than 30 countries, were slaughtered by Hamas,” he said.
Miller also emphasized the ongoing hostage crisis, noting that “Hamas took 254 people hostage, including 12 Americans, on October 7, 2023. An estimated 101 hostages, including 7 Americans, remain in Gaza.”
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He outlined the ongoing conflict stemming from Hamas’s actions, stating, “Hamas’ attacks on October 7 launched a war that continues today with tragic consequences for the Palestinian people.” He reiterated Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s sentiments, saying, “The United States mourns the death of every innocent who died on October 7, and we are determined to continue to work for a ceasefire agreement that brings the hostages home, alleviates the suffering of the Israeli and Palestinian people, and ultimately brings an end to this war.”
In related developments, Israel expressed gratitude to US President Joe Biden for his condolences on the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attack. “I thank US President @JoeBiden, a true friend of the State of Israel, for calling me to extend his condolences to the people of Israel on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th massacre,” said Israeli President Isaac Herzog on X.
On October 7 last year, hundreds of Hamas terrorists breached Israeli borders, killing over 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages, of whom around 100 remain captive. In response, Israel launched a significant counteroffensive in Gaza, targeting Hamas units. However, the increasing civilian death toll, particularly among women and children, has raised humanitarian concerns regarding the escalating conflict.
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