Israeli Military reports 199 abductions by Hamas in ongoing conflict

The Israeli military has updated the number of individuals abducted by Hamas to 199, higher than previous estimates. The cross-border attacks initiated by the militants led to a devastating conflict.

Israeli officials, as well as foreign citizens, are among those who have been abducted in the ongoing crisis, which began on October 7. Efforts to secure the release of these hostages are now a top national priority for Israel.

"We have updated the families of 199 hostages," military spokesman Daniel Hagari told a media briefing, revising up an earlier figure of 155 captives.


"The efforts on the hostages are a top national priority," Hagari said. "The army and Israel are working around the clock to bring them back."

The military and the nation are working tirelessly to ensure their safe return. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with at least 1,400 people killed in Israel and 2,750 in retaliatory strikes on Gaza, according to official figures from both sides.

In the aftermath of the attacks, the Israeli military has also reported locating the bodies of around 1,500 militants.

Inputs from AP