Hamas, the Palestinian terrorists, has announced the release of two female captives as a humanitarian gesture, following Qatari-Egyptian mediation efforts. Abu Obaida, the spokesperson for Hamas’ armed wing, stated that despite the enemy’s refusal to accept them, the group decided to release the detainees due to their poor health conditions.

The armed wing had previously abducted the two Americans, along with several others, near Gaza almost two weeks ago. The release of the American hostages occurred on Friday, following the mediation efforts by Qatar. The details of the captives’ identities were confirmed by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).

The spokesperson for Hamas, Abu Obeida, made the announcement on the group’s Telegram channel, stating that the release was motivated by humanitarian reasons and the captives’ poor health. The ICRC has expressed its hope for the safe return of the released hostages to their loved ones.

The assault carried out by Hamas on southern Israel on October 7 resulted in the seizure of over 200 individuals, including Israelis and dual nationals. Israeli authorities report that more than 1,400 people, many of them civilians, lost their lives during the attack.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has demanded the unconditional release of all hostages held in Gaza. This demand is echoed by human rights groups, international organisations, and the families of the captives.

Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson has stated that the release came after days of continuous communication with all parties involved. However, Obeida claims that Hamas had offered to release two additional captives alongside the two Americans but were rejected by Israeli authorities.

Israel has dismissed Hamas’ claim as “mendacious propaganda” and alleges that the group is attempting to improve its image amid global condemnation for the killing of Israeli civilians by Hamas gunmen, some of which involved gruesome methods.