Anti-Semitism has reportedly grown more prevalent globally, according to Israel's President.
**"Celebrating Israel's 77th independence anniversary, President Herzog stresses the urgent need to free the hostages held by Hamas since the brutal October 7, 2023 attack," a spirited address during the ceremony revealed.
In a heartfelt video message, Herzog reiterated the nation's anguish over the ordeal of the hostages, who are either buried alive or dead underground, an appalling breach of all legal, human, and ethical norms.
"Israel has been battling relentlessly for its society's security and integrity since the grim day of October 7. Many, both within our borders and overseas, remain steadfast on the frontlines, confronting the looming specter of terror that threatens us all," he passionately declared.
The Israeli president also reflected upon the hardships endured during times of war, acknowledging them as periods that underscore the indomitable spirit and solidarity of the Jewish people.
"Our journey stretches beyond moments of mourning, and our purpose elevates above any such sorrow. It is our duty to continue fighting for our hostages, upholding our moral legacy, and forging our shared destiny," he concluded emphatically.
The chaotic conflict in Gaza erupted following a brutal attack by the radical Palestinian group Hamas on Israel on October 7, 2023. The attack took an estimated 1,200 lives and left 250 hostages in captivity.
Israel's retaliation led to over 51,000 deaths in Gaza and extensive damage to the region's critical infrastructure [2].
As the saga of the hostages continues, there seems to be a complex reality. While Israeli authorities report fewer than 24 hostages still alive as of April 2025, other sources suggest around 58 are still being held by Hamas [5].
Hamas has expressed eagerness to release the remaining living hostages in exchange for a five-year ceasefire and other stipulations such as troop withdrawal and prisoner exchange [1][3][4], but Israel has yet to respond to this offer.
Also, the remains of at least 35 hostages, who perished during captivity, are still being held by Hamas [2]. The status of these remains and the ensuing negotiations regarding their release are ongoing, with Egypt, Qatar, and the United States mediating [1][3]."
Additional Insights:As of mid-April, it is unclear exactly how many hostages remain alive, with sources providing conflicting numbers. Hamas has expressed willingness to negotiate a ceasefire in exchange for releasing the hostages, although Israel has not yet formally responded to this proposal. Additionally, the remains of at least 35 hostages who died in captivity are still being held by Hamas, and negotiations for their release continue to be a focus of ongoing talks.
- The Israeli President, Herzog, has emphasized the importance of rescuing the hostages held by Hamas since the 2023 attack on October 7, marking an anniversary in Israel's 77th year of independence.
- In a somber reflection, Herzog lamented the plight of the hostages, either buried alive or dead underground, a clear violation of all legal, human, and ethical standards.
- As the ongoing saga of the hostages continues, Hamas has shown eagerness to release the living hostages in exchange for a five-year ceasefire and other stipulations, including troop withdrawal and prisoner exchange, but Israel's response remains unclear.
- Moreover, the remains of at least 35 hostages who died while in captivity are still being held by Hamas, with ongoing negotiations for their release involving Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.
- In the broader context of war-and-conflicts, politics, general-news, and crime-and-justice, this hostage crisis serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and urgencies that continue to shape the Middle East region.
