**Hamas Releases Video of Israeli Hostage**
A video has been released by Hamas showing a 19-year-old Israeli hostage, Liri Albg. The video is part of indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel over a ceasefire agreement and the release of hostages.
In the video, Liri Albg urges the Israeli government to come to an agreement with Hamas. She was taken hostage along with six other female conscripts in October 2023 when Hamas attacked a base near the Gaza border. Five of the six women remain captive.
**Violence Continues in Gaza**
As negotiations continue, violence has escalated in Gaza. The Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry reported that 88 civilians were killed by Israeli bombardment over the past 24 hours. A strike on a house in Gaza City killed 11 people, including seven children.
Residents are searching for survivors amidst the rubble and bodies wrapped in shrouds. “A massive explosion woke us up,” said Ahmed Mussa, a neighbor. “Everything was shaking.” The Israeli military claims to have eliminated dozens of Hamas terrorists and over 100 “terrorist targets” in Gaza over the last two days.
**Calls for Ceasefire**
Liri Albg’s parents responded to the video by saying it had broken their hearts. They appealed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to make decisions “as if your children were present.” The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said that Liri’s video is a stark reminder of the urgency to bring all hostages home.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog told Lira Albg’s parents that his delegation would stay at the table until all hostages are released. Israeli officials have described Hamas’ release of hostage videos as psychological warfare.
**International Reaction**
The World Health Organisation’s Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has again called for an immediate end to attacks against hospitals and health professionals in Gaza. People in Gaza must have access to healthcare, he said.
The Biden administration plans to sell arms worth $8bn to Israel, including missiles, shells, and other munitions. This move comes despite criticism from the international community over civilian casualties in Gaza.
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