In a recent overnight raid, Israeli forces detained two American brothers and their Canadian father in Gaza, according to relatives of the men. Borak Alagha, 18, and Hashem Alagha, 20, who were born in the Chicago area, are among a small number of U.S. citizens still trapped in the besieged Palestinian territory. The raids, which took place in the town of al-Masawi near Khan Younis, also resulted in the detention of several other individuals, including men from neighboring households and adult male relatives of another Alagha household.
The incident occurred as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited the region to engage in mediation efforts with Israeli and Arab leaders. U.S. embassy officials in Jerusalem have been in contact with Israeli authorities regarding the situation. However, no details have been provided regarding the reasons behind the detentions.
The ongoing Israeli-Hamas war, which has lasted for nearly four months, has created significant hurdles for individuals attempting to leave Gaza, including U.S. citizens, green-card holders, and their close relatives. Despite requests from the United States, many remain stranded in the region. American families and advocates have expressed concern about the difficulties faced by these individuals.
Cousin Yasmeen Elagha, a law student at Northwestern University, recounted the events of the raid, stating that Israeli forces entered the family home early Thursday morning. Women and children in the household were allegedly tied up, blindfolded, and placed outside the home. The Alagha brothers, their Canadian father, a mentally disabled uncle, and other adult male relatives were taken into custody and are currently reported as missing.
The number of people for whom the U.S. has requested permission to leave Gaza has not been publicly disclosed by State Department officials due to the 'fluidity' of the situation. Since October 7, the U.S. government claims to have assisted 1,300 Americans, green-card holders, and their eligible family members in leaving Gaza. However, the ongoing Israeli military offensive has resulted in the deaths of over 27,000 people, primarily civilians, according to Palestinian health officials.
In a separate incident, a Palestinian American woman, Samaher Esmail, was also detained on Monday from her home in the occupied West Bank. The Israeli military stated that she was arrested for 'incitement on social media' and is currently being held for questioning. As of now, there have been no updates on her case from the U.S. embassy in Israel.
The situation in Gaza remains challenging, with individuals, including American citizens, facing significant difficulties in leaving the region. The detention of the Alagha brothers and their father adds to the concerns raised by their families and advocates. The U.S. government is actively engaged in addressing the situation and is in contact with Israeli authorities to seek clarification and resolution.
