Since October 7 Crisis, 53-56 Hostages Including Americans Held by Hamas in Gaza; Up to 22 Alive, 33 Killed

More than 600 days after their abduction by Hamas, at least 53 to 56 hostages remain captive in Gaza under harsh and inhumane conditions, including starvation and torture. The hostages, some of whom are American, have been held since the October 7 hostage crisis. Reports indicate that up to 22 hostages are still presumed alive but face imminent risk of death, while 33 have been killed, with Hamas reportedly ransoming their bodies. Families and officials continue to call for their immediate release, emphasizing that the ongoing conflict would have ended months ago if the hostages had been freed. International responses vary, with the UK explicitly naming Hamas as responsible for the hostage situation, while Canadian authorities have been criticized for omitting Hamas from official statements. The situation remains a focal point of concern, with repeated appeals urging the world not to forget the hostages and to press for their safe return.