Hamas has released Keith Siegel, the first U.S. citizen to be freed as part of the ongoing Gaza cease-fire agreement. Siegel, an Israeli-American from North Carolina, was held captive for nearly 500 days before his release. His family expressed gratitude to President Trump for facilitating his return, while the White House reiterated its commitment to securing the release of all remaining hostages.
First American Hostage Freed by Hamas
Hamas Releases Israeli-American Hostage Keith Siegel
Hamas released Keith Siegel, a U.S. citizen and Israeli-American, on Saturday as part of a hostage exchange under the cease-fire deal in Gaza. Siegel was among three Israeli hostages freed in the fourth phase of the agreement. He had been held in captivity for nearly 500 days.
Cease-Fire Deal and U.S. Involvement
The cease-fire arrangement that led to Siegel’s release was brokered in the final days of former President Joe Biden’s administration. However, President Donald Trump has emphasized his administration’s role in pressuring both Hamas and Israel to ensure the agreement’s execution.
Family’s Statement and Political Reactions
Siegel’s family thanked Trump for helping bring him home, releasing a statement through the Hostage Families Forum that read, “Our hope rests with you.”
His wife, Aviva Siegel, who was also taken hostage but freed in November 2023, previously spoke about the dire conditions captives were facing. “I went through hell, and they are going through hell,” she stated in an interview.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt praised Siegel’s release, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to bringing back all hostages. Additionally, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed his support on social media, saying, “I cannot wait to see Keith home at last. I won’t stop working until all the hostages are home.”
U.S. Commitment to Hostage Recovery
The U.S. government continues diplomatic efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages held in Gaza. While Siegel’s release marks progress, officials emphasize that more work remains to ensure the freedom of all captives.
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