Russia Urges Hamas to Release Hostages After Talks with Putin and Netanyahu

Following a phone conversation between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Russia has demanded the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. This marks a shift in rhetoric from Russian officials, who previously maintained relations only with Hamas' political wing. The change in stance comes after Netanyahu criticized Russia's position on the Israel-Hamas conflict and its growing dialogue with Iran. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov condemned Hamas' terrorist attack on October 7 and stated that discussions were underway to address the fate of the hostages, including Russian nationals.