President Trump revealed that three more hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have died, leaving just 21 alive as Israel prepares to launch a massive operation to recover the remaining captives and eliminate Hamas. However, Israel reports 24 hostages still alive in Gaza after Trump’s remarks sparked fear among families.
Key Takeaways
- President Trump announced that three more hostages have died in Gaza, reducing the number of living hostages to 21.
- Israel’s Security Cabinet has approved “Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” a planned invasion of Gaza if negotiations fail.
- Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has been tasked with negotiating a ceasefire and hostage release deal between Hamas and Israel.
- Hamas has agreed to release one American-Israeli hostage, Idan Alexander, and the remains of four others.
- Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu supports intensified military action, believing it will help rescue the remaining hostages.
Trump Announces More Hostage Deaths
During a White House swearing-in ceremony for Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, President Trump delivered the somber news that three more hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have died. “As of today, it’s 21, three have died,” Trump stated, reducing the count of living hostages from the previously reported 24. The President did not provide details on the identities of the deceased hostages or how he received this information, and Israeli authorities have not yet confirmed these deaths.
Trump recounted a recent meeting with freed hostages, saying, “Two weeks ago, I had 10 hostages come in, and they thanked me profusely.” During that meeting, he learned that of the original 59 hostages being held (including both living and deceased), only 24 were believed to be alive at that time. The Israeli military had previously reported 58 hostages still held in Gaza, with 34 believed to be dead, making Trump’s latest announcement a significant development in the ongoing crisis.
Trump says only 21 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now believed to be alive
https://t.co/KK6JktpN8y— WSFA 12 News (@wsfa12news) May 7, 2025
Israel’s Planned Operation and Diplomatic Efforts
Israel’s Security Cabinet has approved plans for “Operation Gideon’s Chariots,” a major military offensive designed to invade and occupy the Gaza Strip if no agreement with Hamas is reached by the end of Trump’s Middle East visit. The operation would involve tens of thousands of IDF reservists in one of the largest military actions since the war began in October 2023. The plan aims to recover the remaining hostages and destroy Hamas’s remaining infrastructure.
“We decided on intensified action in Gaza. That was the IDF chief of staff’s recommendation — to move, as he said, toward the defeat of Hamas. He believes this will also help us rescue the hostages. I agree with him,” Netanyahu said.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue as newly appointed Special Envoy Steve Witkoff works to broker a ceasefire and secure the release of remaining hostages. Hamas has reportedly accepted a proposal to release one American-Israeli hostage, Idan Alexander, along with the remains of four other hostages. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed skepticism about Hamas’s statements, calling them psychological warfare designed to manipulate negotiations.
Humanitarian Crisis and Casualties
Since Israel resumed its offensive in Gaza on March 18, ending a two-month truce, the conflict has resulted in significant casualties. Israeli forces report 1,218 deaths on their side since the war began, while Palestinian authorities claim at least 2,507 deaths in Gaza since the resumption of hostilities. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with limited access to food, medicine, and essential services throughout the Gaza Strip.
“Well, we’ve gone very slowly, because we want to try and get as many hostages saved as possible, and we’ve done a good job in that regard,” Donald Trump said.
Israel’s demand for the release of half the remaining hostages in exchange for a ceasefire extension and lasting truce in Gaza remains a significant sticking point in negotiations. As the situation develops, President Trump continues to emphasize the urgency of resolving the hostage crisis while supporting Israel’s security concerns. The coming days will be critical as diplomatic efforts intensify amid preparations for potential military action.
Sources:
- Trump says only 21 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza now believed to be alive
- Trump says three Israeli hostages held in Gaza have died
- Trump: Three More Hostages Die in Gaza, Dropping Total To 21 Alive
