Hamas Claims Half of Living Israeli Hostages Are in Evacuation Zones
Hamas' military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, has claimed that half of the living Israeli hostages are currently located in areas under evacuation orders issued by Israel.
Hamas’ military wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, has claimed that half of the living Israeli hostages are currently located in areas under evacuation orders issued by Israel. This statement, made by Abu Obeida, the spokesperson for the Al-Qassam Brigades, raises concerns about the safety of these hostages, especially as Israeli airstrikes and military operations intensify.
Hostages in Danger, Hamas Warns
Obeida confirmed that Hamas had decided not to move the hostages from these areas but would keep them under strict security measures. He issued a warning that their lives are at significant risk. He urged Israel to engage in “serious negotiations” to secure the release or evacuation of the hostages, emphasizing that “time is running out.”
The Hamas spokesperson also placed full responsibility for the hostages’ fate on the Israeli government. Obeida claimed that had Israel respected the ceasefire agreement signed in January, most of the hostages would have been safe at home by now, instead of being exposed to ongoing danger.
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Escalating Conflict in Gaza
Since Israel ended a two-month ceasefire with Hamas on March 18, the violence in Gaza has intensified. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) resumed air and ground assaults on the Gaza Strip, marking a new stage in their military offensive. The latest strikes have led to significant casualties, with Gaza health authorities reporting that at least 1,249 Palestinians have been killed and over 3,000 injured.
Also Read: Israeli Army Kills Key Hamas Money Exchanger in Gaza
Displacement Crisis in Gaza
In addition to the escalating violence, a UN report highlighted that Israel has issued 13 displacement orders since March 18. These orders have affected about 126.6 square kilometers, or 35 percent of the Gaza Strip, displacing over 280,000 people in the past two weeks. The growing humanitarian crisis adds to the challenges facing the people of Gaza as the conflict continues.
The situation remains dire, with international calls for immediate action to protect civilians and ensure the safety of hostages on both sides of the conflict.
