The recent release of 13 Israeli hostages by Hamas included a South African woman, in what was a crucial step in the ongoing truce negotiations with Israel.
Hamas hostage release: One of the elderly women is South African
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The release brings the total freed hostages to 29, out of approximately 240 taken during the 7 October 2023 attack in Gaza. This includes six elderly people, three mothers, and four children.
One released hostage is a South African woman named Channah, per AFP. She is diabetic and was in need of insulin. Her daughter received a photo of Channah in her home, confirming her identity.
The hostage crisis began on 7 October, when Hamas militants entered Israel from Gaza. The attack resulted in about 1,200 deaths and the seizure of around 240 hostages.
The truce led to a pause in Israeli airstrikes. This allowed thousands of Gazans to leave shelters and return home.
Israel’s Prison Service is preparing for 42 prisoner releases. This suggests further releases by Hamas, potentially including 14 more Israeli hostages.
