FOX News contributor Douglas Murray joined ‘Fox & Friends Weekend’ to discuss his experience visiting the Hamas massacre site and the surge in anti-Israel protests. The U.S. and Israel are unsure of how many hostages that Hamas terrorists took on Oct. 7 are “still alive,” National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said Sunday. Sullivan made the comments during an appearance on ABC’s “This Week.”
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas has raised concerns about the safety and well-being of hostages held by the terrorist organization. While Israel classifies all 239 missing individuals as hostages of Hamas, it is unclear how many of them are still alive. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan emphasized the U.S. government’s commitment to securing the release of the nine U.S. citizens and one U.S. green card-holder believed to be in Hamas custody.
“We do not know the precise number of hostages. We know the number of missing, and that’s the number the Israelis have given, but we don’t know how many of those are still alive,” Sullivan told ABC. “As far as Americans are concerned, there are nine missing American citizens as well as a missing legal permanent resident–a green card holder.”
The uncertainty surrounding the hostages’ status has further complicated the situation. Sullivan addressed claims from Hamas that Israeli airstrikes have killed a number of hostages taken on Oct. 7, stating that no claims by Hamas should be taken at face value. However, the U.S. currently lacks the means to confirm or disprove these claims.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated in recent weeks, with Israel launching thousands of airstrikes and artillery shells in response to the Oct. 7 massacre. The Israeli Defense Forces have now initiated a ground operation, focusing on Gaza City, which is the largest population center in the region. Israeli officials believe that many of the hostages may be held in the labyrinth of tunnels maintained by Hamas beneath the city.
The Gaza health ministry, under Hamas control, claims that over 11,000 Gazans have been killed by Israeli attacks since the fighting began. However, the U.S. has rejected these figures, highlighting the need for independent verification of casualty numbers.
As efforts continue to secure the release of the hostages, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan has expressed his intention to meet with the families of the missing Americans later this week. The situation remains complex and challenging, with both the U.S. and Israel working to gather more information and ensure the safety of those held by Hamas.
Anders Hagstrom is a reporter with Digital covering national politics and major breaking news events. For any tips, reach out to [email protected] or on Twitter: @Hagstrom_Anders.
