Hamas leader’s big claim: “We are very close to a ceasefire agreement with Israel on the release of hostages”
The Israeli government is also under pressure from the families of the hostages. According to officials, 237 people are detained in Gaza, including Israelis and foreign nationals. An Israeli military spokesman said on Monday that 40 of the hostages were children.
So far, Hamas has released four civilian hostages, one Israeli soldier has been rescued by the forces, and three hostage bodies have reportedly been found.
With input from IANS
