As international negotiations continue, Siegel, once a captive of Hamas, is hopeful for a diplomatic breakthrough that could secure the release of hostages and end the ongoing violence.
**Trump Urged to Leverage Power for Hostages' Release Amid Gaza Conflict**
**Trump Urged to Leverage Power for Hostages' Release Amid Gaza Conflict**
In a recent interview, ex-hostage Keith Siegel believes Trump has the ability to facilitate the release of remaining captives in Gaza.
An American Israeli man, Keith Siegel, who endured 484 days in Hamas captivity, has called on former US President Donald Trump to utilize his influence to secure the release of hostages still held in Gaza. Siegel, 66, shared his story following his release under a ceasefire agreement brokered by Trump, which he credited for his freedom.
Siegel was taken captive during the Hamas-led assault on October 7, 2023, alongside his wife Aviva, who was freed after 51 days. In an interview in Tel Aviv, he expressed gratitude to Trump and asserted his confidence in the former president's ability to mediate a deal to bring home approximately 50 remaining hostages, with up to 20 of them believed to still be alive.
As Trump prepares to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Siegel emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, "He has a lot of strength, power, and ability to put pressure on those that need to be pressured." His remarks come at a critical juncture, as a new ceasefire and hostage release agreement are reportedly in the works.
Despite the hope for progress, indirect talks in Qatar recently concluded without a resolution, as significant differences between Israel and Hamas remain. Netanyahu's visit to Washington has raised expectations for an agreement that may involve the staged release of living hostages alongside those deceased, contingent on the release of Palestinian prisoners.
Siegel, however, also expressed concerns regarding Hamas's continued governance in Gaza. He stated, "It's of the highest priority and urgency to get all of the 50 hostages back as soon as possible. But we cannot let Hamas continue to threaten people."
With the human toll in Gaza rising, as reported by Hamas-run health authority which indicates over 57,000 fatalities since the Israeli military response, Siegel also voiced compassion for innocent Gazans caught in the conflict. "Peace and security for all people are basic human rights that every person deserves,” he said, calling for responsible leadership to mitigate further suffering.
