As an update to my previous entry regarding the hopeful release of the Japanese hostage, it seems that there has been a major construction to the whole story.

12 other hostages of other nationals have been released as of today. However, the three Japanese civilians are still being held. So far, there is no news yet as to when the hostages will be released, or whether they will actually be released at all. It is not easy to expect the hostages to be released at the time announced based on the growing imbalance in that region.

Let us keep hoping with all our wishes that the three return home safely, again, both mentally and physically unharmed.