In a recent update, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revised the number of living hostages being held in the Gaza Strip from 24 to 21. The announcement was made via a video posted to his social media accounts on May 8, 2025.
“There is no dispute that 21 hostages are alive,” Netanyahu said, while acknowledging that the conditions of three others remain uncertain. His statement follows the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack on southern Israel, which resulted in 251 hostages being taken to Gaza.
The shift in the official number of hostages comes amidst an ongoing conflict, with Israeli military operations intensifying in Gaza. While Netanyahu’s office had previously reported that 59 Israelis remained in Gaza, the reduced number of hostages raises further concerns over the fate of those still held.
On Monday, the Israeli Security Cabinet approved a new military plan aimed at expanding the offensive in Gaza. The plan includes intensified strikes, full control over the aid distribution, and efforts to dismantle Hamas. According to Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz, the new strategy will force Gaza’s population into confined southern areas or encourage “voluntary” emigration. Katz also stated that Israel would maintain its security buffer zone, even if a ceasefire is reached.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen, with international concern growing over the impact of Israel’s blockade and renewed assaults. The United Nations and several human rights organizations have raised alarms over the escalating civilian toll, which, according to the latest figures, stands at 2,545 Palestinian casualties.
The families of the hostages have criticized the Israeli government’s actions, claiming that military escalation could jeopardize the lives of their loved ones. Sara Netanyahu, wife of the Prime Minister, also recently suggested that the number of living hostages in Gaza may be lower than the previously reported 24.
Further complicating the situation, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed on May 6 that intelligence reports indicated fewer than 21 hostages were alive, a claim that contradicts official Israeli statements.
Sources:
- Xinhua News Agency, May 8, 2025
- The Times of Israel, May 2025
- Israeli Ministry of Defense Press Release
