Of the 90 hostages still held in Gaza, three should be released during the next phase on Saturday. According to NBC News, Keith Siegel, holder of American citizenship, is one of them. Agam Berger, last military observer still captive, could also be released, her companions having regained freedom after 477 days of captivity. The situation of Arbel Yahud, whose planned release did not take place, remains uncertain. Hamas claims to have provided “proof of life” video, information denied by the office of the Israeli Prime Minister.
Tsahal spokesperson, General Daniel Hagari, expressed “serious concern” concerning Shiri Bibas and his children Kfir and Ariel, still captive. “We expect certainties about them and hope their rapid return,” he said.
Among the remaining hostages are ten people over the age of 50, including Shlomo Mansour, 86, the oldest of captives. Nine sick or injured hostages are also detained, including Yarden Bibas, Sagi Dekel-Chen and Yair Horn.
The family of Agam Berger expressed their emotion: “We thank the Israeli people for their warm support. We are delighted with the return of our four daughters – we are a big family! We are impatiently waiting to be able to hug Agam in our arms next week.”
