Hamas on Saturday released “farewell” photos of dozens of hostages still held in Gaza, warning Israel’s offensive in Gaza City could put their lives in jeopardy.
Of the 251 people seized by Hamas during their attack on Israel in October 2023, 47 remain in Gaza, including 25 the Israeli military says are dead.
The images were accompanied by a caption in Arabic and Hebrew saying: "Because of [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu's intransigence and [Chief of General Staff Eyal] Zamir's submission, this is a farewell photo at the beginning of the operation in Gaza."
Hamas published the picture on its official website, underscoring its position that the fate of the captives lies with the political decisions of Israel's leadership.
Hamas has repeatedly declared its readiness to conclude a comprehensive deal with Israel to release all Israeli captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, end the war on Gaza, and ensure the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces.
