'No official confirmation' yet on identities of hostages to be released by Hamas

Muireann Duffy

The Department of Foreign Affairs has received "no official confirmation" as to what hostages will be released under the freshly struck deal between Hamas and Israel.

Irish citizen Emily Hand (nine) is among those who were captured by the militant group during its attack on Israel on October 7th.

As reported by The Irish Times, Israeli media has reported that Emily was included on a list of hostages eligible for release during the ceasefire.

The four-day truce agreed by Israel and Hamas will begin on Thursday, and will see the release of 50 hostages taken by Hamas in exchange for the release of at least 150 Palestinians who are currently in jail in Israel.

Israeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu said Hamas will release at least 10 women and children per day over the course of the ceasefire.

In a statement on Wednesday afternoon, the Department of Foreign Affairs welcomed the agreement between Israel and Hamas, but could not confirm whether Emily is among the hostages set to be released from Gaza.

"Our focus in particular is on the case of nine-year old Irish citizen Emily Hand," the department said.

"We have worked consistently for her release over recent weeks, including through extensive contacts with regional partners.

"There is no official confirmation at this time of those scheduled to be released under this agreement."

Hamas captured around 240 people during the attack on October 7th, four of whom have since been released.

The department also welcomed that the pause in fighting will allow much-needed humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.

"A break in hostilities is essential to allow for significant increased humanitarian access.

"Gaza’s civilian population urgently need fuel, food, water, and medical supplies, on a sustained basis and at scale," the department added.