(Reuters) – Hamas is searching for eight individuals recognized by Russia as probably being among the many hostages in Gaza and is able to free them, Hamas Politburo member Abu Marzouk instructed Russian state information company RIA on Saturday.
RIA cited Marzouk, who has been visiting Moscow, as saying that the Russian overseas ministry had handed over a listing of eight names, all of whom had twin citizenship.
“We’re very attentive to this record and we’ll deal with it fastidiously as a result of we have a look at Russia as our closest buddy,” Marzouk was cited as saying.
“Now we’re searching for these individuals. It is troublesome, however we’re wanting. And as quickly as we discover them, we’ll launch them. Regardless of the difficulties as a result of present state of affairs.”
Russia on Friday defended its resolution to ask a Hamas delegation to Moscow in opposition to sturdy Israeli criticism, saying it was obligatory to take care of contacts with all sides within the battle.
(Reporting by Andrew Osborn; Modifying by Giles Elgood)