What's happened
On the anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel, families of hostages and victims gathered worldwide to commemorate the tragedy. Over 1,200 Israelis were killed, and 101 hostages remain in Gaza. Global leaders called for peace and the release of hostages amid ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The New York Times highlights the surreal experience of families advocating for their loved ones, noting that many have become public figures in their absence. Liam Stack reports on the emotional toll of the hostage situation, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive ceasefire. Meanwhile, Mandy Damari's poignant plea at a Hyde Park event, as reported by Metro and The Independent, underscores the personal anguish faced by families of hostages. The BBC News article reflects the broader sentiment among families that their loved ones' plight is being overshadowed by military actions in the region.
How we got here
The Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, resulted in significant casualties and the abduction of approximately 250 individuals. Israel's military response has led to a humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with tens of thousands reported dead. The hostage situation remains critical as families advocate for their loved ones' release.
Common question
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What is the current status of hostages held in Gaza?
As the one-year anniversary of the Hamas-led attacks approaches, the situation for hostages held in Gaza remains critical. With over 100 individuals still unaccounted for, families are intensifying their calls for action and support. This page explores the current status of hostages, the advocacy efforts of their families, and the broader implications of this ongoing crisis.
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What are the latest updates on the hostage crisis in Gaza?
As the hostage crisis in Gaza continues to unfold, families of the victims are making heartfelt pleas for their loved ones' release. This situation not only affects those directly involved but also has significant implications for regional stability. Below, we explore the latest developments, the actions being taken by families and governments, and the broader impact on the Middle East.
More on these topics
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Sir Keir Rodney Starmer KCB QC MP is a British politician and former lawyer who has served as Leader of the Labour Party and Leader of the Opposition since 2020. He has been Member of Parliament for Holborn and St Pancras since 2015.
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Hezbollah is a Shia Islamist political party and militant group based in Lebanon. Hezbollah's paramilitary wing is the Jihad Council, and its political wing is the Loyalty to the Resistance Bloc party in the Lebanese parliament.
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.