Israeli forces rescue four hostages
WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – Israeli forces rescued four hostages from the Gaza strip this weekend in an operation officials say killed nearly 300 Palestinians. While President Biden celebrated the hostages’ return home U.S. officials worry the death toll could complicate ceasefire negotiations.
U.S. officials say there were no U.S. forces on the ground for the hostage rescue, but they have been working for months to support Israel’s efforts.
Hostages got to hug their loved ones again after Israeli forces rescued them eight months into the war with Hamas.
“Welcoming the safe rescue of four hostages that were returned to their families in Israel,” said Biden.
However, the Biden administration recognized their rescue came at a cost. The Gaza Health Ministry said the raid also killed 274 Palestinians.
“Innocent people were killed, and that is heartbreaking. That is tragic,” said National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.
Sullivan could not say how many civilians versus Hamas militants were part of that number killed but Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton said Hamas operates in a way that purposefully puts civilians in the crossfire.
“If you don’t want your people killed in hostage rescue missions, then you shouldn’t take hostages in the first place,” said Cotton.
The hostage release came as pro-Palestinian protestors marched at the White House demanding a ceasefire and the release of the remaining hostages.
President Biden announced a proposal last week to do just that.
“We won’t stop working until all the hostages come home and a ceasefire is reached,” said Biden.
Hamas still wants an end to the war as part of any deal while Israel has promised to continue fighting to destroy the militant group.
“Hamas should say yes… this is the answer that the world is looking for,” said Sullivan.
Last year more than 100 hostages were released during a weeklong ceasefire in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel.
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