Families tell the BBC they're hoping for reunions with loved ones held in captivity for over 15 months.
Hostage Eli Sharabi is seen here pictured with his family who were all killed in Hamas's attack in southern Israel on 7 October 2023
The daughter of 84-year-old hostage Oded Lifschitz told the BBC she hoped her father was still alive. "Miracles do happen," Sharone Lifschitz said from her east London home. Israel in response launched a massive military offensive to destroy Hamas. Its campaign has killed more than 46,700 people in Gaza, according to the territory's Hamas-run health ministry, displaced most of the 2.3 million population and caused widespread destruction.After months of on-and-off negotiations, a ceasefire deal has been reached and is due to come into effect on Sunday, said Qatari and US meditators.
"I know that the chances for my dad are very slim. He's an elderly man, but miracles do happen," she told the BBC. Her mother Mandy told the BBC last month she worried every second for her daughter, a Tottenham Hotspur fan who was taken from her home by Hamas gunmen.On Wednesday night she shared photos of football fans at an Arsenal v Tottenham match who had brought messages of support for her daughter.Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Wednesday described the deal as "long-overdue news that the Israeli and Palestinian people have desperately been waiting for".
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Rip-Off Christmas Markets Leave British Families FuriousChristmas markets in the UK are facing backlash for exorbitant prices, with some families spending more on a single day out than on a summer holiday abroad. Reports highlight instances of inflated costs for food, tickets, and activities, leaving consumers shocked.
Read more »
BBC's 'Time': A Hidden Gem of Gripping British Crime DramaBBC's 'Time' is a critically acclaimed crime drama miniseries starring Sean Bean and Stephen Graham. Despite its high ratings and awards, it has remained somewhat under the radar. This captivating series explores the harsh realities of prison life through the eyes of a convicted schoolteacher and a dedicated prison officer, forces them to confront their values and make agonizing choices.
Read more »
Inside BBC Call The Midwife Laura Main's life - from famous ex to surprise BBC roleActress Laura Main has been a mainstay on the BBC hit drama Call The Midwife since it first hit screens in 2012 playing nun-turned-mum Shelagh Turner in the period drama
Read more »
BBC Faces Backlash Over Appointment of Hamas-Labeling SkepticThe BBC has appointed George Achi, a former Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) executive known for discouraging the use of the term 'terrorist' to describe Hamas, as Head of Editorial Quality and Compliance at the BBC World Service. This has sparked criticism from campaigners and Jewish groups, who accuse the BBC of 'doubling down' on its controversial stance and exhibiting editorial bias. Achi's past emails revealed his instructions to CBC staff to avoid labeling Hamas as terrorists, even though Canada officially classifies it as a terrorist entity. Critics argue this appointment fuels concerns about the BBC's willingness to accurately label Hamas.
Read more »
Merseyside Families Celebrate Christmas Jumper DayFamilies across Merseyside are celebrating Christmas Jumper Day by wearing their festive attire to school and nursery. This annual Save the Children awareness day raises funds for children in need. Millions of schoolchildren and workplaces participate in the fundraising efforts by making a donation and wearing their Christmas jumpers for the day.
Read more »
Hollywood Bowl Keeps Prices Low to Attract Families Amid Budget Tax ConcernsHollywood Bowl, a popular ten-pin bowling chain, has reported strong financial performance while maintaining affordable prices for families. CEO Stephen Burns highlights the company's strategy of offering competitive pricing in response to cost-of-living pressures. While acknowledging the impact of recent budget tax measures, Burns expresses confidence in the company's ability to mitigate the effects without raising prices for customers.
Read more »