As tensions escalate between Israel and Hamas, the latter has claimed to be protecting its hostages taken during the war with Israel and will only release them under certain conditions. The spokesperson of Hamas’ armed wing, Abu Obeida, made these statements in a video message released on Monday. According to Obeida, Hamas is currently holding 199 Israelis hostage, with 13 Americans still unaccounted for. He emphasized that these detainees, from different nationalities, are considered guests by Hamas, and their safety is a top priority. However, Obeida did not provide any specific details about the circumstances that would lead to their release.
Senior Hamas official Moussa Abu Marzouk also commented on the situation, stating that due to the ongoing Israeli bombing of the Gaza Strip, foreign prisoners cannot be released. In addition, former Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal expressed confidence in the group’s ability to empty the prisons holding Palestinians captive in Israel.
To add to the complexity of the situation, Hamas recently released a video featuring one of its foreign captives. The woman, 21-year-old Mia Schem, who was being treated for an arm injury, pleaded to be returned to her family as soon as possible. Her identity was confirmed by a representative from her family, who had appealed to French President Emmanuel Macron for assistance.
Meanwhile, Israel has imposed a blockade on the Gaza Strip, preventing essential supplies from reaching the region’s 2.3 million residents. Israeli Energy and Infrastructure Minister Israel Katz has stated that the blockade will be lifted if Hamas releases the hostages. However, as of now, Hamas has not taken any action in response to this offer.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life on both sides. At least 4,200 people have been killed, including 1,400 Israeli civilians and soldiers, as well as 30 Americans. Palestinian health authorities report that 2,808 Palestinians have been killed, with over 10,950 wounded.
The situation remains tense as Israel prepares for a ground invasion into Gaza, and the world waits to see how Hamas will respond to international pressure to release the hostages.
