In a troubling development, U.S. officials have expressed increasing concerns over the fate of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, with fears growing that most of them may have already been killed. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the deaths of 34 hostages, while reports suggest that the actual number of casualties could be significantly higher.

According to a report from the Wall Street Journal, sourced from U.S. officials, negotiations for the hostage release have been met with apprehension as fears arise that the majority of the hostages may no longer be alive. The ongoing talks have particularly focused on the demand for 40 living hostages, which includes elderly individuals, women, and female soldiers. However, Hamas sources have indicated their inability to fulfill this demand, further fueling concerns about the wellbeing of the hostages.

Currently, 129 hostages abducted by Hamas on October 7th are still being held in Gaza. The IDF confirmed the deaths of 34 hostages, based on intelligence gathered by troops operating in the region. The report warns that the actual number of casualties could be higher, as estimated by Israeli and American officials who spoke on condition of anonymity.

U.S. officials, familiar with the intelligence on the matter, have emphasized their concerns about the possibility that most of the hostages have been killed. However, they noted that their information is limited and heavily relies on Israeli intelligence reports.

The fate of the hostages has been further complicated by the possibility of casualties caused by Israeli strikes on Gaza. It is suspected that some hostages may have been killed during these strikes, while others may have succumbed to health issues resulting from injuries sustained during their initial capture by Hamas terrorists.

The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with hopes for a successful negotiation to secure the release of the hostages. The desperate calls to bring the hostages home safely continue to resonate in Tel Aviv and across Israel, as families and loved ones anxiously await news of their fate.

Efforts are underway to obtain more accurate information about the hostages' status and to find a path towards their safe return. The urgency of the situation remains a priority as the search for answers continues.