Hamas releases two US citizens from captivity – CNN

CNN, citing diplomatic sources, reports the release of two US citizens who were held captive by Hamas.

Qatar mediated the release and handed them to the Red Cross. 

A spokesperson for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's office told The Times of Israel that the mother and daughter were released and are to be taken to a base near the border with the Gaza Strip. The women's relatives are already waiting for them at the base.

A Hamas spokesperson also announced the release of the two US citizens.

Bloomberg writes that the United States and European countries are pressuring Israel to postpone a ground invasion of Gaza in order to gain time for negotiations mediated by Qatar. In this way, the countries want to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.

UPD: IDF spokesperson confirms the release of two women

However, he stressed that militants still hold about 200 people in captivity.