Live After Quit

Release of Hostage by Israel Postponed Until Friday: No Exceptions!

Israel has put forward a statement on Thursday that the release of an Israeli-American hostage being held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip will not take place before Friday, despite earlier speculations. Aviv Cohen, a 25-year-old from Tel Aviv, was captured by Hamas back in August of 2019 while he was hiking near the Gaza border. Since then, his family has been desperately searching for any information as to his whereabouts and condition. In recent weeks, it seemed as if Cohen’s release was close at hand, as the Israeli government confirmed it had recently been in contact with Hamas in an attempt to secure his release. However, on Thursday, the Israeli Ministry of Defense said that no deal had been reached and that Cohen will not be released before Friday. The Ministry of Defense also said that Israel remains totally committed to Cohen’s release and is doing everything in its power to secure his safe and quick return. Cohen’s family released a statement expressing despair at the Ministry’s announcement and pleading for his immediate release. The hostage situation has raised significant tensions in the region, with both sides refusing to budge from their positions. This could lead to further delays in Cohen’s release and might even embroil the region in a further conflict. It is unclear at this time when Cohen’s release will take place or what other steps both sides will be taking in order to prevent further escalation. But one thing is for sure: unless a deal is reached and Cohen’s release is secured, the situation will continue to remain precarious for all involved.