An Israeli government official reaffirmed on Wednesday that 24 hostages held in Gaza are still alive, countering a statement made by President Donald Trump that put the number at 21—an assertion that left many families of the captives feeling alarmed.
Gal Hirsch, Israel’s special envoy for hostage affairs, posted an update on X maintaining that Hamas continues to hold 59 individuals—24 alive and 35 deceased—a breakdown that has not changed since before President Trump’s remarks. “All families of the kidnapped are always updated with the information we have about their loved ones,” he said.
At a White House gathering on Tuesday, Trump commented that a week earlier, 24 hostages had been alive, but that this number had since dropped. “I say 21, because, as of today, it’s 21. Three have died,” he said. Trump did not disclose where this information came from or offer any supporting details.
In response to Trump’s remarks, the organization representing the families of the hostages called on Israeli leaders to immediately clarify and share any new intelligence. “The headquarters again calls on the prime minister to stop the war until the return of the last abductee. This is the most urgent and important national task,” a spokesperson said.
{Matzav.com}