Hamas’s armed wing, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades, has issued a stark warning to Israel regarding the fate of hostages held by the militant group. In a statement released on Monday, Abu Obeida, a spokesperson for the brigades, declared that if Israeli military pressure persists, the hostages would be returned to Israel “inside coffins.”
The statement followed recent comments by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who had accused Hamas of executing six hostages whose bodies were recovered over the weekend. Netanyahu’s remarks were based on the assertion that Hamas’s refusal to negotiate for the release of prisoners through diplomatic means would lead to increased fatalities among the captives.
Abu Obeida announced that new instructions had been given to the militants responsible for guarding the hostages. These instructions outline how the captives should be handled if Israeli forces approach their place of detention. The warning underscores the heightened tensions between Hamas and Israel, with both sides locked in a protracted and increasingly violent conflict.
Hamas’s threat reflects ongoing challenges in securing a resolution to the hostage situation, as well as broader tensions and hostilities between the two sides. The warning by Hamas also highlights the dire conditions and risks faced by those held captive in the conflict.
The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic and military developments continuing to unfold. The international community watches closely as efforts to resolve the crisis and address humanitarian concerns continue.
Sources By Agencies
