Obama calls for 'unconditional' release of Israeli soldier

Published
73

WASHINGTON: President Barack Obama on Friday called for the unconditional and immediate release of an Israeli soldier who was apparently captured in a clash with Hamas.

He said it would be difficult to put back together the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel that collapsed earlier today. However, the president added the US will continue working toward a ceasefire.

Obama said Israel was committed to the ceasefire, but the ceasefire was violated. He said it was heartbreaking to see what's happening in Gaza.

Related: Gaza truce collapses after ‘capture’ of Israeli soldier

The US president said he wants to see everything possible done to ensure Palestinian civilians are not killed.

He said Israel must be able to defend itself, but that irresponsible actions by Hamas have put civilians in danger.

The truce was brokered by the US and United Nations but collapsed less than two hours after it began.

Opinion

Editorial

Kashmir unresolved
Updated 30 Sep, 2026

Kashmir unresolved

The just solution lies in India addressing the issue through a trilateral dialogue involving the legitimate representatives of the Kashmiri people and Pakistan.
Water shortage
30 Sep, 2026

Water shortage

THAT the country is entering the Rabi season with an anticipated water shortage of nearly 25pc, the lowest carryover...
Young hearts
30 Sep, 2026

Young hearts

THE observance may have passed, but the message of World Heart Day should not fade with it. The occasion is a useful...
Terror and politics
Updated 29 Sep, 2026

Terror and politics

There is an urgent need to tone down the rhetoric and tackle terrorism as a collective challenge for both the affected provinces and the federation.
Watching the glaciers
29 Sep, 2026

Watching the glaciers

THE latest signs from Pakistan’s mountains are worrying. Suparco says the number of unfrozen glacial lakes it...
Dangerous agenda
29 Sep, 2026

Dangerous agenda

AS the world remains fixated on the US-Iran conflict, elsewhere in the Middle East, Israel is consolidating its grip...