Several Americans may be among the dead and hostages taken by the Hamas group during their recent attack on Israel, according to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. In an interview on NBC News’ ‘Meet the Press’ show, Blinken stated that the US is actively trying to verify reports of hostages and ensuring that any Americans being detained are a priority. The ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel has resulted in the deaths of hundreds, including foreign nationals attending a peace-themed music festival near the Gaza Strip. The Israeli army is working to secure desert regions near the coastal enclave, rescue hostages, and evacuate areas near Gaza within 24 hours. Military spokesperson Daniel Hagari expressed determination to eliminate terrorists in Israel. The capture of Israeli citizens by Hamas and their abduction into Gaza has caused shock and dismay, with images circulating on social media showing bloodied hostages and desperate pleas for rescue. Foreign nationals, including a German woman and Nepalese students, have also been killed or affected by the conflict. The situation remains tense with thousands of people, including 18,000 Indians, stranded in Israel. The information was reported with inputs from AFP.