An Israeli spokesperson contradicted Donald Trump on the fate of three hostages being held by Hamas, raising tensions ahead of the US President’s visit to the Middle East.
Trump told reporters on Tuesday that the number of living hostages had fallen from the official figure of 24. “As of today, it’s 21,” he said. “Three have died.”
His comments echoed remarks made last week by Sara Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister’s wife, who told journalists that fewer than 24 hostages remained alive – a statement that angered some families, who said they had not been officially informed of any change in status.
Israel’s designated hostage envoy, Gal Hirsch, responded shortly after Trump’s remarks, reiterating that Israel’s official list still includes 24 living hostages.
“Hamas is currently holding 59 hostages,” he tweeted. “24 of them are on the list of living hostages. 35 of them are on the list of hostages whose deaths have been officially confirmed.”
The discrepancy may stem from differing approaches to classifying hostages’ status, the Times of Israel reported. Citing a source familiar with the matter, it said the Israeli government does not update the number until a death is conclusively verified, even if the intelligence services suspect a hostage has died or there has not been a recent sign of life.
The issue has reignited tensions between Israeli officials and hostage families, many of which have criticised the government for its handling of communications. Hirsch maintains that his office is in ongoing contact with the families and provides updates as needed.
Of the 59 hostages currently held by Hamas, Hirsch noted that five are foreign nationals.
Trump helped broker a temporary ceasefire and hostage release deal in January, which secured the release of 33 hostages including two American citizens.
However, that agreement collapsed after its initial phase. Talks stalled again in March after Hamas rejected Israeli demands to alter the terms, leading to a resumption of fighting on 18 March.
Negotiations have since remained frozen. Israel has insisted on a phased agreement that would see some hostages freed in return for a limited ceasefire, allowing military operations to continue thereafter.
Hamas, in contrast, has pushed for a comprehensive deal: the release of all 59 remaining hostages in exchange for a permanent end to the war.
On Sunday, the Israeli security cabinet approved plans for a wide-scale ground operation in Gaza, aimed at re-establishing full control of the territory.
The Times of Israel reported that the campaign’s launch is on hold until after Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East from 13-16 May. He will visit Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar but does not plan to stop in Israel, Reuters reported.
