Hostage Crisis Involving British Teens
Israel’s Ambassador to the UK, Tzipi Hotovely, revealed that two British teenage girls, aged 13 and 16, are among the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.
They were abducted by terrorists during an attack over the weekend, during which their mother was shot.
International Plea for Safe Return
Ambassador Hotovely called upon the international community to ensure the safe return of all kidnapped individuals, including British citizens.
She received reports of the mother being shot and her teenage daughters being held hostage in Gaza.
Number of Hostages
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has informed the families of 199 hostages being held in the Gaza Strip.
On Sunday, Foreign Secretary James Cleverly estimated that around 10 British people were abducted by terrorists, though the exact number of UK citizens in captivity is yet to be officially confirmed.
Responsibility and Humanitarian Crisis
Hotovely emphasized that Israel is not responsible for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
She pointed out that Israel is focused on the safety of Israelis, while Hamas bears the responsibility for the well-being of the Palestinians.
Emotional Appeals and Distressing Images
Distressing images of an eight-year-old Israeli girl, Ella, and her 15-year-old sister, Dafna, who are being held hostage by Hamas, have prompted emotional appeals for their safe release.
Their mother, Maayan Zin, described their situation as “a pogrom” and “a nightmare.”
Appeal for Immediate Release
UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Martin Griffiths, called for the immediate release of the hostages, particularly children.
He described the hostage-taking as an egregious, illegal, unacceptable, and immoral act, stressing the urgent need for their release.
The Plight of the Hostages
The images and reports depict the ordeal faced by the hostages, including children, and have evoked international concern for their safety and well-being.
International Call for Action
The revelation of British teenagers being held hostage by Hamas has generated international calls for swift action and the safe return of all hostages involved in this distressing situation.
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