The United Kingdom and other international partners have expressed readiness to assist Israeli forces in rescuing hostages taken by Hamas during their terrorist attack on October 7. The militant group is employing these hostages as a means of negotiation.
The situation involves the widespread scattering of hostages throughout the Gaza territory, making the rescue operation complex. According to reports from Fox News, Justin Crump, the CEO of the security and intelligence group Sibylline, has called on Western nations with strong special forces capabilities to aid in the release of these hostages.
Since Hamas launched thousands of missiles into Israel last week, the conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life. At least 4,200 people have been killed, including Israeli civilians and soldiers, as well as American and Palestinian casualties. President Biden has emphasized the high priority of releasing and ensuring the safe return of the hostages, though he did not disclose specific plans.
Hamas reportedly took around 199 Israelis as hostages, and several other nations have citizens either missing or taken hostage during the attack. British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly confirmed that up to 10 British nationals are believed to be held hostage in the Gaza Strip.
The United Kingdom’s Special Forces, including the SAS, have adjusted their readiness due to the events in southern Israel. General Lord Richard Dannatt, the former chief of general staff in the British army, highlighted the expertise of the U.K. Special Forces in hostage rescue situations.
The British Special Forces are believed to be collaborating with Israel’s Sayeret Matkal force and the U.S. Delta Force to gather intelligence and plan hostage rescue operations.
Former CIA director and retired four-star Gen. David Petraeus commended the comprehensive efforts in progress, with a focus on locating and rescuing the hostages held by Hamas.
The goal is not only to assist Americans in Gaza but also to address the concerns of displaced civilians within the region. The situation remains dynamic as international partners work toward the safe release of hostages and the restoration of stability in the area.
