'There is a lot of hope that we can now see the beginning of a new Syria,' says Pedersen
world4 days ago
The leaders of the United States, Britain, France and more than a dozen other countries called in a joint statement on Thursday for Hamas to release the scores of hostages it is holding.
Hamas seized the hostages during a shock October 7 attack that sparked the deadliest ever war between it and Israel, which has vowed to eliminate the Palestinian militant group.
"We call for the immediate release of all hostages held by Hamas in Gaza for over 200 days. They include our own citizens," the leaders said.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
"We emphasise that the deal on the table to release the hostages would bring an immediate and prolonged ceasefire in Gaza, that would facilitate a surge of additional necessary humanitarian assistance to be delivered throughout Gaza, and lead to the credible end of hostilities," they said.
"We strongly support the ongoing mediation efforts in order to bring our people home."
Israel estimates 129 of the roughly 250 people abducted during the Hamas attack on October 7 remain in Gaza, including 34 who the military says are dead.
The Hamas attack resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people, according to an AFP tally based on official Israeli figures.
At least 34,305 people have been killed in Gaza during more than six months of war between Israel and Palestinian militants, the health ministry in the Hamas-run territory said Thursday.
ALSO READ:
'There is a lot of hope that we can now see the beginning of a new Syria,' says Pedersen
world4 days ago
Pokemon Trading Card Game Pocket is a virtual version of the collectible card game that has captivated schoolyards since the late 1990s
world4 days ago
The complaint calls for the implementation of the so-called Leahy Law, which the plaintiffs and rights group say Israel has been illegally exempted from
world4 days ago
The bill, already approved in parliament but not yet submitted to the government for final confirmation, has stirred a heated debate in Iran
world4 days ago
Through his efforts, this 22-year-old man showed people that an ordinary person can make a contribution through sheer will and determination, says Canadian government
world4 days ago
Aftershocks shake the island nation overnight; people queue for fuel and essentials; US, Australia and France send aid, rescue teams
world4 days ago
The 53-year-old from Alabama is currently the only living person with an animal organ transplant
world5 days ago
Sara had been subjected to 'acts of extreme cruelty' but Sharif and Batool had not shown 'a shred of remorse', says judge Cavanagh
world5 days ago