Hamas issues instructions to ‘neutralize’ hostages if Israel attempts rescue operation
Hamas issued a threat to “neutralize” its hostages if Israel attempted another rescue operation, as revealed in an internal statement obtained by Reuters. This warning came after Israel successfully rescued four hostages from Gaza’s Nuseirat camp on June 9.
According to the statement, Hamas instructed its operatives to intensify the living conditions of the captives following the Nuseirat operation. The group warned that if Israel made any attempts to rescue the hostages, they would take drastic measures to prevent it.
The internal statement, dated Nov. 22, also stated that Hamas had information suggesting Israel was planning a similar rescue operation to the one carried out in June. The group emphasized that they held Israel responsible for the fate of the hostages and urged their operatives to follow the instructions without considering the consequences.
In response to Hamas’s threats, there was no immediate reaction from Israel. However, Defense Minister Israel Katz was quoted in Israeli media stating that pressure on Hamas was increasing, and they were determined to advance a potential hostage deal.
The Nuseirat rescue mission in June resulted in the liberation of four hostages who had been held by Hamas since October 2023. The raid led to a high number of casualties, making it one of the bloodiest incidents during the conflict.
Hamas’s directive to tighten the living conditions of the captives aligns with previous instructions issued after the Nuseirat operation. The group also instructed its operatives to be prepared to “neutralize” the hostages in response to any perceived threat from Israel.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated after Hamas fighters attacked Israeli communities in October 2023, resulting in numerous casualties and hostages being taken. Israel’s military response has caused significant devastation in Gaza, with thousands of Palestinians killed and many more injured.
The ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas continue to pose a threat to the safety and security of the region. It remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and whether efforts towards a peaceful resolution can be achieved.
