The news was initially confirmed by Israel's Channel 13 News and public broadcaster Kan.
The release of the hostages, Judith and Natalie Raanan, was confirmed via statement by the Israeli Prime Minister's Office.
"In response to Qatari efforts, (the Qassam) Brigades released two American citizens (a mother and her daughter) for humanitarian reasons," Hamas said in a statement posted on Telegram.
The Islamist group did not provide any additional information as to where the hostages were released. Israel's government estimates that roughly 200 people are being held by Hamas in Gaza, of which at least 10 are believed to be American nationals.
Hamas is categorized as a terrorist group by the United States, the European Union, Germany and a number of other countries.
Hamas Releases 2 American Hostages: A 59-year-old woman and her teenage daughter, dual citizens from Illinois, were being reunited with family members on an Israeli military base, Israeli officials said. The two were kidnapped on Oct. 7, along with roughly 200 other people. »
