IDF raises number of captives to 230, says ‘military pressure’ on Hamas meant to free them

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari says the military is slowly ramping up ground operations in the Gaza Strip, Report informs via the Times of Israel.

“The IDF is gradually expanding its ground operations in Gaza and the scope of its forces,” Hagari says.

He says the “military pressure” on Hamas is also aimed at releasing the hostages held in Gaza.

Hagari says the military has notified the families of 230 hostages that their loved ones are currently being held in the Gaza Strip. He says the number is not final as the military investigates new information.

The number also does not include four released hostages — mother and daughter Judith and Natalie Ra’anan last Friday night, and elderly women Yocheved Lifshitz and Nurit Cooper on Monday night.