President Joe Biden and a group of 17 other world leaders are urging Hamas to release hostages in a joint statement released on Thursday. The statement, signed by countries including Argentina, France, and the UK, emphasizes the international concern for the fate of the hostages and the civilian population in Gaza.
The deal on the table would bring an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, allowing for humanitarian assistance to reach those in need. The leaders stress the importance of allowing Gaza residents to return to their homes with proper shelter and provisions.
The call for release comes after Hamas released a proof-of-life video showing Israeli-American hostage Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who has been in captivity for over 200 days. In the video, Goldberg-Polin accuses Israel of abandoning hostages and claims that 70 captives have been killed in Israeli bombings.
President Biden recently met with another hostage, four-year-old Abigail Edan, who was released as part of a temporary ceasefire deal. The blame for continued hostilities in Gaza is placed on Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, who has rejected the pending hostage deal.
Despite US pleas, Israel has announced plans to continue military operations in Rafah. The White House official emphasized the importance of Hamas releasing the hostages to bring an end to the crisis in Gaza. The international community is united in calling for the safe return of all hostages held by Hamas.