Hamas Holds Women Hostages to Conceal Treatment

The State Department spokesperson suggested that Hamas refused to release all of their hostages during the pause in their conflict with Israel because they didn't want the world to know about the atrocities committed against them, including sexual violence. While the spokesperson did not have concrete evidence, he stated that one possible reason for Hamas holding onto female hostages was to prevent them from speaking publicly about their experiences. The truce negotiations included the release of women and children as a priority, but Hamas allegedly broke the deal and made excuses for not releasing them.