Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that only 21 hostages held in Gaza are known to be alive, casting doubt over the fate of three others previously thought to be living. This announcement came after U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the number of confirmed living hostages had dropped from 24 to 21, though he did not cite a source.
Netanyahu's statement aligns with earlier data posted by Gal Hirsch, Israel’s coordinator for hostage affairs, who said that 59 hostages remain in Gaza—24 alive and 35 confirmed dead. Netanyahu clarified: “We know for certain that 21 are alive — that’s not in dispute. There are three others where, unfortunately, it’s uncertain whether they’re alive.”
A group representing hostage families urged the Israeli government to prioritize the return of the remaining captives, calling it “the most urgent and important national task.” The hostages were taken during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel, which left approximately 1,200 Israelis dead, mostly civilians.
Since the abductions, Israel has launched a full-scale military response in Gaza, including airstrikes and ground operations. According to Hamas-run health authorities, over 52,000 Palestinians have been killed in the conflict. The war has drawn sharp divisions in Israeli society, particularly over the balance between military objectives and the safety of hostages.
Temporary ceasefires in late 2023 and early 2025 led to the release of some hostages, but concerns have grown as Israel expands its offensive. Families fear intensified operations could jeopardize the remaining captives.
Israel’s stated war goals remain: dismantle Hamas and secure the release of all hostages. The humanitarian toll and uncertainty over hostage safety continue to fuel public pressure and international scrutiny.