THREAD: american hostages

SOMALI PIRATE Leader Sentenced: Justice for American Hostage

15 November 2024 — Abdi Yusuf Hassan, a naturalized U.S. citizen, was arrested in Minneapolis in 2019 for his role in the 2012 kidnapping of journalist Michael Scott Moore. The Somali pirate gang, led by Hassan, held Moore captive for 977 days in Somalia. Hassan and Somali citizen Mohamed Tahil Mohamed were convicted and sentenced to 30 years each for hostage-taking and terrorism charges.

During Moore’s captivity, he suffered severe abuse including beatings and threats with firearms. His release came after his family paid a $1.6 million ransom in 2014. Prosecutors highlighted Hassan’s significant role as both a leader of the pirates and as Minister of Interior for Galmudug province during the crime.

Hassan exploited his government position to facilitate the criminal activities of the pirate gang from his own home. U.S Attorney Damian Williams emphasized that this case underscores America’s commitment to holding those accountable who harm American citizens abroad. The sentences reflect a strong stance against international hostage-taking crimes involving U.S citizens.

BIDEN-HARRIS Strategy Fails: Hamas Rejects Hostage Deal

27 October 2024 — In a critical moment during negotiations, Hamas leader Sinwar rejected a hostage deal, banking on the BIDEN-HARRIS administration’s pressure on Israel to benefit Hamas. The Wall Street Journal reports Sinwar urged leaders outside Gaza to resist concessions, believing high civilian casualties would increase global pressure on Israel. This strategy aimed to exploit perceived weaknesses in the administration’s approach.

The report reveals a big miscalculation by the Biden-Harris team. Their dual strategy of pushing Israel for negotiations while criticizing it over Gaza backfired, as Sinwar saw this as an opportunity to reject compromise. By intensifying pressure on Israel, the administration inadvertently strengthened Hamas’s position and derailed potential agreements.

Critics swiftly reacted to these revelations. Journalist Daniel Greenfield stated that “the Biden-Harris administration emboldened Hamas.” Author Benjamin Weingarten highlighted extensive support provided to Iran and its affiliates under Obama-Biden policies, while political analyst Michael Scott Doran criticized their negotiation tactics as fundamentally flawed.

VENEZUELAN GANG’S Chaos: US Communities Under Threat

17 October 2024 — In New York City, kids as young as 11 are reportedly involved in violent robberies linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren De Aragua (TdA). Surveillance footage from Aurora, Colorado shows a brutal attack on a worker by men refusing to accept a bribe. In Texas, two foreign nationals were arrested for allegedly planning to transport firearms for criminal use.

These incidents highlight the growing influence of TdA across the United States. The gang has gained notoriety through violent crimes that have alarmed law enforcement and policymakers. Representative Tony Gonzales of Texas has been vocal about the threat posed by TdA, especially in border communities unprepared for such brutality.

Gonzales and other GOP lawmakers have urged President Biden to designate TdA as a Transnational Criminal Organization. They warn that if unchecked, the gang could unleash terror similar to its impact in Central and South America. The gang’s activities include drug trafficking and human trafficking, leaving devastation across multiple countries.

Authorities caution that Tren De Aragua’s criminal operations pose an increasing danger to American communities nationwide. With its roots in Venezuela’s prisons, this “thug-for-hire” organization is spreading chaos from major cities like New York City down to small towns along border states like Texas.

ISRAEL RESCUES Hostages: Daring IDF Operation Saves Lives

08 June 2024 — The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) successfully rescued four hostages captured by Hamas during the October 7 attacks. This marks the largest hostage recovery operation since the war with Hamas began in Gaza. The hostages, held for 246 days, included Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Shlomi Ziv, and Andrey Kozlov.

The rescue operation targeted two Hamas buildings above ground. Noa Argamani’s abduction had become a symbol of the October 7 Hamas terror attack, with footage of her kidnapping widely circulated.

The IDF shared a video showing the dramatic moment they freed three of the four hostages. This successful mission underscores Israel’s commitment to bringing its citizens home safely from terrorist captivity.

ISRAEL RESCUES Hostages in Daring Gaza Operation

08 June 2024 — Israel conducted its largest hostage rescue operation since the latest conflict with Hamas began, freeing four individuals from central Gaza. The military raid in Nuseirat resulted in the rescue of Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv. All hostages were taken for medical checks and reunited with their families after 246 days in captivity.

The operation was marked by heavy air and ground assaults, leading to significant casualties among Palestinians. At least 94 Palestinians were reported dead, including children, with over 100 wounded brought to local hospitals. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant praised the mission as “daring” and “brilliantly executed.”

Noa Argamani’s abduction had drawn widespread attention due to a video showing her screaming for her life during her capture at a music festival. Her mother’s plea for her release had also garnered significant media coverage. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue fighting until all hostages are freed.

The aftermath saw nearly 100 Palestinian bodies taken to Al-Aqsa Hospital amid ongoing military activity in the area. AP reporters witnessed the grim scene as smoke rose and armored vehicles moved through Nuseirat and Deir al-Balah areas. The conflict continues to exact a heavy toll on both sides as Israel remains committed to securing its citizens from terrorist threats.

US Families LEFT In AGONY: Stalled Negotiations for Hamas Hostages Cause Heartbreak

04 April 2024 — Half a year has passed since the chilling Hamas terror attack in southern Israel. American families are voicing their frustration over the stalemate in mediation talks. Their loved ones were abducted from a music festival near Gaza’s border, and they believe political agendas are overshadowing the urgency to save lives.

Rachel Goldberg-Polin, whose son Hersh, a 23-year-old hostage, is among those captured, opened up about her family’s daily ordeal to Fox News Digital. She painted a vivid picture of their unending trauma and relentless efforts to bring their family member back home.

The last communication Goldberg-Polin received from her son was just before he fell into the hands of terrorists. Despite no updates on his condition or whereabouts since his capture, she clings onto hope that negotiators will shift focus from politics to people’s lives.

The video footage showing Hersh’s injury and subsequent imprisonment has only deepened the family’s pain. They continue to grapple with what Goldberg-Polin terms an “ambiguous trauma”, as they anxiously await any news about their loved ones.

ISRAELI HOSTAGES & Biden’s Diplomatic Disaster: The Shocking Truth Unveiled

29 March 2024 — 134 Israeli hostages are reportedly held in Rafah, leading Israel to ponder negotiations for their freedom. This situation arises despite President Joe Biden’s public caution against Israel entering Rafah. He voiced concerns for Palestinian civilians taking shelter there. Intriguingly, it appears that the welfare of these civilians falls on Israel, not Hamas — the faction that has ruled Gaza for nearly two decades and sparked the war on October 7.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu speculated in mid-February that the war would end within 'weeks’ once an operation in Rafah started. However, persistent hesitation has worsened conditions in Gaza. On Monday, Biden seemingly made Israel’s decision easier by siding with Russia and China at the United Nations Security Council.

Biden approved a resolution separating a ceasefire from a hostage release agreement. As a result, Hamas returned to its original demand of ending the war before freeing any more hostages. Many view this action by Biden as a significant misstep and an abandonment of Israel.

Some theorize that this disagreement may secretly satisfy the Biden administration as it allows them to publicly resist an Israeli operation while discreetly maintaining arms supply. If true, this would let them profit from an Israeli triumph over Iran-backed Hamas without diplomatic or political repercussions.

ISRAELI HOSTAGES Caught in Biden’s Diplomatic Fiasco: The Unseen Consequences

29 March 2024 — The fate of 134 Israeli hostages, believed to be held in Rafah, is pushing Israel towards negotiations for their release. This move comes despite President Joe Biden’s public caution against Israel’s intervention in Rafah, due to the potential risk to Palestinian civilians seeking shelter there. Intriguingly, it appears that the responsibility for these civilians falls on Israel, not Hamas — the organization controlling Gaza for nearly two decades and instigator of the October 7 war.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu had forecasted in mid-February that the war would end within 'weeks’ once an operation in Rafah was initiated. However, a lack of decisive action has worsened conditions in Gaza. On Monday, Biden seemingly simplified Israel’s decision by siding with Russia and China at the United Nations Security Council.

Biden permitted a resolution separating a ceasefire from a hostage release deal to pass through unchallenged. As a result, Hamas returned to its original demand — ending the war before releasing any additional hostages. This act by Biden was viewed as a significant misstep and seemed to leave Israel out in the cold.

Some suggest this discord might secretly please Biden’s administration as it allows them to publicly object an Israeli operation while covertly maintaining arms supply. If true, this would allow them to gain advantages from

ISRAEL and HAMAS on the Brink of a Landmark Hostage Deal: Here’s What You Need to Know

28 February 2024 — A potential breakthrough is in sight as Israel and Hamas edge closer to a deal. This agreement could liberate about 130 hostages currently held in Gaza, offering a brief respite from the ongoing conflict, says U.S. President Joe Biden.

The deal, which could be enacted as early as next week, would bring much-needed respite to both Gaza’s battle-weary residents and the families of Israeli hostages taken during a Hamas attack on October 7th.

Under this proposed agreement, there would be a six-week cease-fire. During this time, Hamas would release up to 40 hostages — mainly civilian women, children, and older or ill captives. In exchange for this act of goodwill, Israel would release at least 300 Palestinian prisoners from their jails and permit displaced Palestinians to return home to designated areas in northern Gaza.

Moreover, aid deliveries are expected to surge during the cease-fire period with an estimated daily influx of between 300-500 trucks into Gaza — a significant leap from current figures," shared an Egyptian official involved in brokering the deal alongside U.S. and Qatari representatives

HEROIC Navy Seals SACRIFICED in Iranian Weapons Seizure: Four Arrested

23 February 2024 — Four individuals of foreign nationality have been charged after a vessel was intercepted in the Arabian Sea. The U.S. Navy seized the ship, which was allegedly carrying Iranian-made weapons.

In a devastating turn of events, two brave Navy SEALs lost their lives during this operation. The fallen warriors were identified as Navy Special Warfare Operator 1st Class Christopher J. Chambers and Navy Special Warfare Operator 2nd Class Nathan Gage Ingram.

David Sundberg, Assistant Director of the FBI Washington Field Office, stated that these charges serve as a stern warning to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). He stressed that any hostile actions from foreign governments will not go unchecked by the U.S..

The FBI and other U.S Government agencies pledge to persistently disrupt attempts by hostile foreign entities aiming to instill fear and inflict harm through violent means.

ISRAELI RAID on Gaza Hospital: A Harrowing Search for Hostage Remains

16 February 2024 — Israeli forces made a dramatic entry into Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza this past Thursday. This action followed a week of intense siege. The Israeli army stated that they were on the hunt for remains of hostages, believed to be held by Hamas. Tragically, an earlier Israeli strike resulted in one patient’s death and injuries to six others within the hospital.

The raid was initiated after the army instructed thousands of displaced individuals seeking shelter in the hospital to evacuate immediately. This is part of Israel’s ongoing campaign against Hamas in the city of Khan Younis. Meanwhile, tensions are heightening as Israel and Lebanon’s Hezbollah militant group amplify their attacks.

The military reported that it had “credible intelligence” suggesting that Hamas used Nasser Hospital as a holding place for hostages and their remains could potentially still be inside. However, it is important to note that international law strictly prohibits targeting medical facilities unless they are being utilized for military purposes.

As troops meticulously searched through the hospital buildings, over 460 staff members, patients and their relatives were relocated into an older building within the compound that was ill-equipped to handle such numbers. The Gaza Health Ministry has reported severe shortages of food, water and baby formula with six patients left unattended in intensive care.

ISRAELI FORCES Strike: Hostage Intelligence Sparks Daring Hospital Raid

15 February 2024 — Israeli special forces executed a targeted operation at the largest hospital in southern Gaza. The action was prompted by reliable intelligence suggesting that Hamas was using the facility to harbor Israeli hostages. Described as a “limited” operation by IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari, it did not necessitate the forceful evacuation of medical staff or patients.

It remains uncertain if any remains were discovered, but Israel has confirmed the apprehension of several Hamas suspects operating within the hospital’s premises. Earlier this week, IDF officially reached out to the director of Nasser Medical Center, demanding an immediate cessation of all Hamas terrorist activities within its walls and insisting on the expulsion of all terrorists present.

The IDF’s statement during this operation disclosed that their intelligence originated from multiple sources including freed hostages. They suggested that not just Nasser Hospital but also Shifa Hospital, Rantisi Hospital, Al Amal Hospital and others across Gaza have been systematically exploited by Hamas as terror bases.

Last month saw a released hostage publicly declare that she along with over two dozen other captives had been held in Nasser Hospital. This raid occurs amidst heightened tensions in the region following recent Israeli airstrikes carried out in Lebanon after a lethal Hezbollah attack.

UNJUST Imprisonment of Nicaraguan Bishop SPARKS Outrage in Biden Administration

07 January 2024 — The Biden administration has expressed strong disapproval towards the Nicaraguan government over the “unfair” imprisonment of Roman Catholic bishop, Rolando Álvarez. The State Department is insisting on his immediate and unconditional release. Álvarez has been held captive for over 500 days in a notorious Latin American prison.

State Department spokesperson, Matthew Miller, voiced criticism against Nicaragua’s President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo for their handling of the bishop’s case. He pointed out that Álvarez has been isolated, deprived of an independent evaluation of his incarceration conditions, and subjected to manipulated videos and photos that raise concerns about his health.

Last February, Álvarez was sentenced to more than 26 years in prison after he refused to seek exile in the United States. Instead, he chose to remain in Nicaragua as a form of protest against Ortega-Murillo’s escalating suppression on the Catholic Church. His conviction followed after he turned down a prisoner exchange deal proposed by the U.S. State Department.

AMERICAN Hostages TRAPPED: 71 Days into Hamas’s Horrific Attack on Israel

18 December 2023 — It’s now been 71 days since the devastating attack by Hamas on Israel. This brutal onslaught led to an immediate death toll of around 1,200 and roughly 240 abductions. Among those still unaccounted for are eight Americans, believed to be held captive by the terrorist group since the early October incident.

Among the missing are Judith Weinstein and Gad Haggai, a senior couple from Kibbutz Nir Oz near Gaza. They were enjoying a peaceful morning walk when disaster struck on October 7th. Their daughter, Iris Weinstein Haggai has shared her painful experience since her parents vanished without a trace.

Weinstein Haggai is relentlessly coordinating with various governments in an effort to secure the release of the hostages. She describes her situation as having a “split heart,” struggling to maintain normalcy for her children while grappling with anxiety over her parents’ unknown fate.

ISRAEL’S WAR: Allies Demand Cease-Fire as Civilian Deaths Soar

18 December 2023 — Israel is under increasing pressure from European allies to halt its ongoing 10-week conflict in Gaza. The calls for a cease-fire come in the wake of several shootings, including the unintended killing of three Israeli hostages. These incidents have ignited global unease about Israel’s conduct during the war and sparked protests within its borders. Citizens are urging their government to return to negotiations with Hamas.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is slated for a visit on Monday, adding more weight to the call for Israel to reduce major combat operations. While the U.S. continues to provide vital military and diplomatic support, it has voiced growing concern over civilian casualties resulting from this conflict. The war has led to thousands of civilian deaths and displaced an estimated 90% of Gaza’s population from their homes.

In response, Israel has permitted U.N aid trucks access into Gaza via a second entry point starting Sunday. However, Palestinians desperate for aid swarmed these trucks at the Rafah crossing with Egypt causing some trucks to halt prematurely as supplies were hastily taken away by locals.

The U.N agency responsible for Palestinian refugees estimates that over 60% of Gaza’s infrastructure has been decimated due to this war,“ reports state, ”Telecom services are slowly coming back online after a four-day blackout which further hindered rescue efforts and aid delivery.

Hamas TERROR Unleashed: Vulnerable ISRAELI Family’s Nightmare Amid Hostage Crisis

05 December 2023 — Eyal Barad and his family faced a chilling ordeal during a Hamas attack. Taking shelter in their safe room in Nir Oz, Israel, they were forced into silence as armed intruders prowled outside. The cries of Barad’s autistic daughter risked giving away their hiding place, pushing him to contemplate extreme measures for survival.

This incident unfolded on October 7th amidst the Israel-Gaza war. Hamas militants brutally killed and captured a significant portion of Nir Oz’s inhabitants. An examination of residents’ messages and security footage indicates that Hamas had intentionally aimed at civilians — a disturbing change in strategy that greatly impacted the war’s trajectory.

The recent liberation of Israeli hostages has cast fresh light on this frightful day. The lack of Israeli military presence coupled with the capture and killing of defenseless citizens highlighted Israel’s vulnerability. Over 100 Palestinian militants departed Nir Oz with approximately 80 residents — nearly half of all released Israelis and one-third of all hostages taken.

Today, Nir Oz symbolizes this vulnerability as over 30 residents are still presumed to be captives in Gaza. This unprecedented operation by Hamas underscores its new hostage

USS MASON Bravely Defends Against Pirate Attack and Dodges Yemeni Missiles: A New Threat on the Horizon?

28 November 2023 — In a daring act of valor, the USS Mason responded to a distress call from commercial vessel M/V Central Park. The Mason successfully defended against an attack by five armed pirates. After attempting to flee, the pirates were pursued and apprehended by the Mason’s crew. The Pentagon has suggested that these pirates are likely of Somali origin, not Houthi.

As the rescue operation was winding down, two ballistic missiles were launched from areas in Yemen under Houthi control. These missiles landed approximately 10 nautical miles away from both the USS Mason and M/V Central Park. Fortunately, no damage or injuries have been reported.

This missile attack could signify an escalation of aggression by Iran-backed forces towards U.S. assets in this region. While there has been a recent increase in drone and missile attacks on U.S bases and troops stationed in Iraq and Syria by Iran-backed groups, this marks a new development with ballistic missiles being directed at U.S ships.

The vessel under attack, M/V Central Park flies under Liberia’s flag but is managed by an Israeli firm owned by Israel’s Ofer

ISRAEL and HAMAS Ink Unprecedented Cease-Fire Deal: Hostages Set for Liberation

22 November 2023 — Israel and Hamas have reached a temporary truce, which entails a hostage release arrangement, as verified by Fox News. The Israeli administration has pledged to ensure the safe return of all hostages, beginning with at least 50 women and children. For every subsequent set of ten hostages freed, an additional day of peace will be granted.

The cease-fire was officially declared following confirmation from Israeli and Hamas leaders that negotiations were nearing completion. Qatari mediators played a vital role in securing the agreement, which is scheduled to commence at 10 a.m. local time on Thursday.

As part of this agreement, Israel’s military will temporarily suspend its pursuit of Hamas for humanitarian reasons. Concurrently, Hamas has consented to free dozens of hostages as Israel agrees to release Palestinian prisoners at a ratio of three-to-one.

During its October 7th terror attack, Hamas seized roughly 240 hostages from Israel. The terror group claimed it had captured enough hostages — including Israelis, Americans and other foreign nationals — with the goal of liberating all Palestinians in Israel.

Pro-Palestinian Protesters Wipe Out Images of Hamas Hostages: A SHOCKING Act of Erasure

08 November 2023 — A startling incident involving pro-Palestinian protesters has come to light. They were caught on video removing posters of innocent victims from a recent Hamas terrorist attack. The video features Lucia Mendoza, a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion VP at her sorority. This act has sparked outrage and raised questions about the root cause of such dehumanization.

The October 7 Hamas attack resulted in the capture of at least 240 hostages from diverse nationalities. Among these hostages were vulnerable individuals like the elderly and infants. Supporters of the Palestinian cause are now under fire for allegedly trying to erase these victims’ images.

When confronted about this unsettling trend by NBC News’ Peter Alexander, Jean-Pierre could not provide a clear answer. This failure to defend free speech and innocent victims’ rights has triggered widespread criticism across social media platforms.

This incident highlights an increasing worry about supporters’ potential moral responsibility for atrocities committed in their cause’s name. As these events continue to unfold, it’s crucial that all parties involved maintain respect for human rights and dignity.

AMERICAN TEEN Freed: The Emotional Rollercoaster of a Family’s Fight Against Hamas Captivity

21 October 2023 — Natalie Raanan, an American teenager, has been released after enduring two harrowing weeks as a hostage under Hamas in Gaza. Her father, Uri Raanan from Illinois, confirmed the news of her freedom and reassured that she is recovering well. The announcement sparked an outpouring of relief and joy within the family who had spent anxious hours praying for Natalie’s safe return.

Uri Raanan expressed his overwhelming relief and joy at the thought of his daughter being home in time to celebrate her upcoming 18th birthday. Before her abduction, Natalie and her brother Ben had made plans to get matching tattoos as a symbol of their bond on this special day. In a heartfelt tribute during her absence, Ben got a tattoo that intertwined their names.

The family’s group text message thread turned from cautious optimism to jubilant celebration upon receiving the news about Natalie’s release. Despite their happiness, they remain conscious that other families continue to live under the shadow of fear for their captive loved ones.