The Israeli military said Monday that 199 people are being held hostage by Hamas and other Palestinian militants in Gaza, an increase from previous estimates.
Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, Israel Defense Forces spokesman, told reporters that the families of the hostages had been notified, The Associated Press reported. He did not say whether the latest number included foreigners or who was responsible, but most are believed to be held by Hamas – the militant group that infiltrated southern Israel more than a week ago.
The estimated nearly 200 hostages, an increase from the previous estimate of 150, include children and the elderly.
It is also believed that some of these hostages are US citizens. National Security Council spokesman John Kirby told reporters last week that there was a “very small” number of Americans believed to be being held hostage, but that he was not aware of any evidence of life and did not provide details could name their whereabouts.
The State Department confirmed Sunday that 30 U.S. citizens were killed in the fighting. The department also said it is aware of 13 missing citizens and officials are in contact with their families.
The State Department is also warning Americans against traveling to Gaza and urging Americans to “reconsider” travel to Israel and the West Bank.
Hamas launched its deadly attack more than a week ago, prompting Israel to declare war on the group. According to Israel, more than 1,400 Israelis have been killed so far. At least 2,750 Palestinians were also killed and another 9,700 injured, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
The Associated Press contributed.
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