Hamas Frees American Hostages in Gaza as Humanitarian Gesture

Hamas' armed wing, the Izz el-Deen al-Qassam Brigades, has released two U.S. hostages, a mother and her daughter, "for humanitarian reasons" following Qatari mediation efforts in the ongoing conflict with Israel. Hamas claims to have taken around 200 hostages during a recent attack on southern Israel, with 50 more held by other armed groups in Gaza. Israel has responded with airstrikes, resulting in casualties, and has called for the release of the hostages while maintaining a blockade on Gaza. Hamas has suggested a potential prisoner exchange, but Israel is unlikely to agree while on a war footing. Several countries, including the U.S. and the UK, are working with Qatar to secure the release of their citizens held in Gaza.