American Mother and Daughter Released by Hamas, Secured by Qatar in Hopeful Sign of Further Negotiations

An American mother and daughter, Judith and Natalie Raanan, were released by Hamas on Friday after two weeks in captivity. The release was secured by Qatar, who played a central role in the negotiations. A diplomat with knowledge of the talks told NBC News that the release of the two hostages could serve as a confidence building measure and could lead to wider dialogue or mediation, aimed at averting a full-scale war.

Uri Raanan, the father of Natalie, said his daughter is doing well following her release. He said he saw on the news earlier Friday that an American mother and daughter would be released by Hamas, and he spent the day hoping that meant his daughter and her mother.

The diplomat said there were “ups and downs” during the discussions, but ultimately the American mother and daughter walked free. Knowing Natalie may be able to celebrate her 18th birthday next week at home with family and friends feels “like a miracle,” Uri Raanan said.

The release of the Raanan family is a hopeful sign that further negotiations could lead to the release of more captives. Qatar has been instrumental in securing the release of the Raanans, and it is hoped that their efforts will continue to bring about further dialogue and mediation in the region.