Bibas Family Awaits Return of Loved Ones, Congress Reflects on 500 Days Since Hamas Attack, as Iran Renews Missile Threats Against Israel

The Bibas family anxiously awaits the return of their loved ones’ remains following a Hamas announcement, while U.S. Congress marks 500 days since a devastating Hamas attack on Israel. Simultaneously, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatens further missile strikes, escalating regional tensions.
Israel Bolsters Defense Post-War, Trump Shares Freed Hostage’s Gratitude, and Palestinian Funds for Victims Seized

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz pledged a robust defense against Hezbollah after IDF troops withdrew from southern Lebanon, and President Trump shared a video of freed Israeli hostage Agam Berger thanking him for securing her release. Meanwhile, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich seized Palestinian Authority funds to aid terror victims.
Families of hostages thank Trump

A very special thanks goes to President Trump for his unwavering support. Because of your powerful actions, we have our lives back. You made this deal possible, after so many months where it felt like all hope was gone. Our hope rests with you for all of the hostages to return.”
Israel targets terror in Jenin, what happened to hostages in captivity, and the future of Northern Gaza

Israeli forces have initiated “Iron Wall,” a substantial anti-terror operation in Jenin, while freed hostages reveal what it was really like in Gaza. Also, the Israeli military announed that Palestinians will be allowed re-entry to northern Gaza, contingent on Hamas’s adherence to ceasefire terms.
Hostages reunited with families, celebrations and worry in Judea and Samaria, and Houthi threats

Hostages recently freed from Hamas captivity were joyously reunited with their families at Sheba Tel Hashomer Medical Center in Ramat Gan. Meanwhile, in Judea and Samaria, the release of prisoners sparked both celebrations and safety concerns among local leaders. Additionally, the Houthi militia in Yemen declared a conditional halt to attacks on Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea.
Releasing Terrorists Is an Infuriating Betrayal of Justice and Morality

These terrorists have brutally murdered Jews—children, mothers, fathers—just for daring to live proud, Jewish lives in the land of Israel. And now, their release sends a chilling message: killing Jews pays.
Hostage Release, Party Resignation, and the USA backs Israel

On January 19, 2025, a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas commenced following the release of a hostage list, with the planned release of three Israeli captives today. However, the Otzma Yehudit Party resigned from the Israeli government in protest against the ceasefire terms. Also, Prime Minister Netanyahu secured support from both U.S. President Biden and President-elect Trump for potential military actions if necessary.
Ceasefire Tensions and Reactions: Hostage Negotiations, Biden’s Emergency in Judea and Samaria

The ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas has divided Israeli hostage families and strained Netanyahu’s coalition. Meanwhile, President Biden has extended a national emergency in Judea and Samaria.
Advanced Surveillance of Israel by Hamas, Blinken’s Critique of Israeli Policy, and Iran’s Stance on Gaza Ceasefire

Hamas has been using advanced surveillance cameras smuggled into Gaza to target Israeli forces, leading to significant casualties. Interestingly enough, the U.S. Secretary of State criticized Israeli policies that undermine the Palestinian Authority and outlined a plan for Gaza’s post-war governance. Meanwhile, the Iranian President emphasized Iran’s commitment to not impede a ceasefire in Gaza.
Blinken’s Gaza Plan, Israeli Coalition Threats, and Yemen Missile Strikes

U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken plans to introduce a new governance strategy for Gaza with the involvement of the Palestinian Authority, while Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatens to exit the government over a ceasefire deal with Hamas. Also a recent Yemeni missile attack triggered widespread alarms in central Israel.