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yesterday

50 Hostages Remain as Families Seek Release After Israel-Iran Ceasefire

The U.S.-brokered truce has weakened Hamas’s backers, boosting hopes that pressure will secure the freedom of the final captives.

Liran Berman, brother of twins Ziv and Gali Berman, who were abducted by militants on Oct. 7, 2023, wears a T-shirt with their names in Or Akiva, Israel, Wednesday, June 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)
Bullet holes and smoke damage are seen in the bedroom of Ziv Berman, 26, in Kibbutz Kfar Aza, Israel, on Monday, June 24, 2024. Berman and his twin brother, Gali, were abducted on Oct. 7, 2023. (AP Photo/Oded Balilty, File)
Liran Berman holds a picture on his mobile phone in Or Akiva, Israel, on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, showing himself, right, and brothers, Ziv, left, and Gali, center, who were abducted by Hamas-led militants on Oct. 7, 2023. (AP Photo/Maya Alleruzzo)
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Overview

  • Fifty Israelis have been held in Gaza since October 7, 2023, and less than half are believed to be alive.
  • The U.S.-brokered 12-day ceasefire between Israel and Iran has significantly reduced Iranian backing for Hamas and opened new diplomatic channels.
  • Israel’s hostage negotiation team believes the truce creates a critical opportunity to pressure Hamas into softer exchange terms.
  • Hamas insists on a full end to the Gaza war before freeing captives while Prime Minister Netanyahu demands the group’s disarmament and exile as a condition.
  • Families describe hostages suffering in underground tunnels and are appealing to President Trump to leverage U.S. influence for a comprehensive deal to end the war and secure all releases.