Former President Donald Trump suggested that the number of Israeli hostages still alive in Hamas captivity may be lower than previously believed, stating it could be fewer than 20.
Speaking at a press conference in the Oval Office on Friday, Trump said, “So now they have 20. But the 20 is actually probably not 20, because a couple maybe aren’t around any longer,” without providing specific evidence. “It’s a terrible thing,” he added.
Trump criticized the ongoing negotiations for the hostages’ release, calling the situation “extortion” and suggesting a military operation might be more effective. “I actually think they’re safer in many ways if you went in and you really went in fast,” he said.
Israeli officials have long estimated that about 50 hostages remain in Hamas hands, with at least 20 believed to be alive. Trump’s comments appear to cast doubt on that figure.
In response, Gal Hirsch, Israel’s special envoy for the hostages, reassured families there has been no official update. “According to Israel’s information, there is no change in the information you have received from us: 20 of the hostages are alive,” Hirsch wrote, as reported by the Times of Israel.
Efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages continue amid growing international pressure.
