Additional Coverage:
- American hostage Keith Siegel freed from Gaza (newsbreak.com)
Gaza City – American hostage Keith Siegel was released by Hamas Saturday morning, marking the end of his captivity. He appeared on a stage in Gaza City, flanked by armed Hamas members.
The backdrop was the Mediterranean Sea and the damaged port. A crowd observed from a distance as the release was documented.
Siegel walked unassisted and is expected to undergo medical evaluations before reuniting with his family. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Agency (ISA) confirmed the Red Cross facilitated the transfer.
President Trump claimed responsibility for Siegel’s release, with the White House stating the administration remains committed to freeing all remaining hostages. Earlier, hostages Ofer Kalderon and Yarden Bibas were also released to the Red Cross in Khan Younis. They too appeared on a stage with armed Hamas members before being transported by Red Cross vehicles.
This release was noted for its orderliness, with the crowd kept at a greater distance than in previous releases.
Siegel, originally from Chapel Hill, North Carolina, was captured alongside his wife, Aviva, in 2023. Aviva was released during the 2023 ceasefire and has since campaigned tirelessly for her husband’s freedom.
Both the IDF and ISA welcomed Siegel’s return and requested privacy for him and his family. The Israeli prime minister’s office also celebrated his return, reaffirming their commitment to the return of all hostages.
The Siegel family expressed overwhelming joy at his release and thanked President Trump. They also acknowledged the 79 remaining hostages and urged continued efforts for their return. The family expressed gratitude to the IDF and offered condolences to families who have lost loved ones in the conflict.
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- American hostage Keith Siegel freed from Gaza (newsbreak.com)