US President Joe Biden reports “real progress” in hostage negotiations as a study reveals death tolls in Gaza may be 41% higher than stated. In Israel, ultra-Orthodox groups violently confronted military officers enforcing conscription. The Israeli military confirmed the identity of a hostage killed in Hamas custody. Biden expressed optimism for a possible hostage exchange. Meanwhile, the Israeli army intercepted drones linked to the pro-Iranian Houthi militia. Additional updates on Middle Eastern developments continue to unfold.
Progress in Hostage Negotiations
US President Joe Biden has asserted that “real progress” is being achieved in discussions regarding a potential hostage deal. Amid these negotiations, a recent study indicates that the death toll in the Gaza Strip may be approximately 41 percent higher than previously reported. Stay updated on the latest developments.
Ultra-Orthodox Pressure on Military Officers
In Israel, members of the ultra-Orthodox community have been reported to have pressured and verbally assaulted an officer tasked with conscripting strictly religious individuals into the military. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz condemned the violent outburst directed at General David Zini by a group of extreme protesters in Bnei Brak, stating that a “red line has been crossed.”
According to reports from Israeli media, the incident occurred while General Zini and another officer were dining in a restaurant located in the predominantly ultra-Orthodox neighborhood of Bnei Brak. A large group of ultra-Orthodox men surrounded the officers, shouting accusations of “murderers” at them.
This incident highlights the ongoing discontent in various sectors of Israeli society regarding exemptions from military service.
Identification of Killed Hostage
The Israeli army has confirmed the identity of another hostage who was killed in the Gaza Strip. An autopsy revealed that the individual, Hamsa al-Sajadna, was found deceased while in Hamas custody. The military announced this discovery on Wednesday, noting that Hamsa was in his early twenties. On the same day, they also returned the remains of Hamsa’s father, Jussef al-Sajadna, to Israel.
Biden’s Optimism for Hostage Release
Amid ongoing discussions about a ceasefire and potential agreements for the release of hostages in Gaza, President Biden emphasized that significant advancements are being made. Speaking to reporters at the White House, he stated, “I met with the negotiators today. We are making real progress.”
In a reflection of his optimism, Biden expressed hope for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for individuals imprisoned in Israel, which he shared just ten days before the transition of power to Donald Trump.
Discrepancies in Death Toll Reports
A study released by Palestinian health authorities suggests that the reported number of fatalities resulting from violence in the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas is significantly underestimated—approximately 41 percent lower than actual figures. This research, published in The Lancet, was conducted by scientists from esteemed institutions including the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Yale University, without external funding.
Israeli Military Intercepts Drones
On Thursday, the Israeli army announced the interception of three drones originating from the east. Within the span of an hour, the unmanned aerial vehicles were neutralized, with two reportedly shot down over Yemen. A spokesperson for the military noted that the pro-Iranian Houthi militia, which claims to be part of an anti-Israel coalition supporting Palestinian interests, frequently announces such attacks.
Further Reading on Middle Eastern Developments
For those seeking more information, the UN reports that approximately 125,000 refugees have returned to Syria since the fall of Assad, although the humanitarian situation remains dire, according to UN humanitarian coordinator Fletcher. Stay tuned for additional updates on current Middle Eastern developments.