The name of the Austrian-Israeli dual citizen Tal Shoham was on the official list presented in Qatar on Wednesday, informed sources told APA on Thursday. Austria has strongly advocated for the early release of the 39-year-old father due to his health problems.

Austrian Kidnapped in Hamas Terror Attack

"There is legitimate reason for hope. However, it is prudent to be cautious until this is confirmed by the release," the sources continued. The releases are planned to be carried out over a period of 42 days. Shoham was kidnapped on October 7, 2023, during a Hamas terror attack on Israel from Kibbutz Beeri, along with several family members. His wife and two small children - who are German citizens - as well as other relatives were already released on November 25, 2023, as part of an exchange. It is unclear whether the 39-year-old, whose grandmother was from Vienna, is still alive.

Foreign Ministry: Release of Austrian "Top Priority"

The swift release of Shoham and his return to his family is of "top priority" for Austria, the Foreign Ministry in Vienna said on Thursday in response to an APA inquiry. "Intensive efforts are being made at all political and diplomatic levels as well as in the security sector." Austria is "in close, regular contact" with partners from the region. Interim Chancellor Alexander Schallenberg (ÖVP) had been in contact with Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani just a few days ago, it was said. Qatar, together with Egypt and the USA, is mediating in the indirect negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian terrorist organization Hamas.

Reports of Delay in Hostage Deal on Thursday

Yesterday, Wednesday, an agreement on a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the release of the detained Israeli hostages was announced. However, the approval by the Israeli cabinet was delayed on Thursday. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused the Palestinian terrorist organization of having withdrawn from parts of the agreement. Hamas denied this.

(APA/Red)

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