Hamas has expressed willingness to release multiple hostages, including US citizen and IDF soldier Edan Alexander,
in exchange for a temporary ceasefire during Eid al-Fitr, according to Israeli public broadcaster KAN. Sources indicate that the group seeks a brief truce to quell recent anti-Hamas protests within Gaza. However, the exact conditions for the release remain undisclosed.
Meanwhile, the US State Department has reiterated its expectation that the Lebanese government take responsibility for disarming Hezbollah and other armed groups. The statement came after Israel launched an airstrike on Beirut’s southern suburbs following rocket attacks from Lebanon, marking a significant escalation despite a fragile ceasefire agreement in place since November.
In related developments, former hostage Ohad Ben Ami, recently freed after 491 days in captivity, shared harrowing details of his experience. Speaking on N12’s Friday Studio show, he described being held 30 meters underground with minimal air and receiving only two meals a day, amounting to approximately 700 calories.
As tensions continue in the region, French President Emmanuel Macron and Lebanese President Michel Aoun have condemned Israel’s airstrikes on Beirut, labeling them "unacceptable." The situation remains highly volatile as diplomatic efforts continue to negotiate a broader ceasefire.
