Israel confirms two US hostages released by Hamas - BBC News

Israeli officials have confirmed that two American hostages, Judith and Natalie Raanan have been released by Hamas.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said the two Americans are safely in the hands of authorities in Israel, and added that US officials will meet with them as soon as possible.

Israel has confirmed that they have received the two women from Hamas at the Gaza border.

The mother and daughter were taken hostage by Hamas during the deadly raid on Israel earlier this month.

The military arm of Hamas said the pair was released for “humanitarian reasons”, and they have been taken to a miltary base in Israel where family members are said to be waiting.

The Israeli government has said that more than 200 people are being held hostage in Gaza.