HAMAS is threatening to kill hostages
The conflict in the Middle East is escalating. The HAMAS movement warned that Israel's resumption of military actions in the Gaza Strip poses a threat to the lives of hostages. A representative of HAMAS's military wing, Abu Ubayda, stated in a video address on March 6 that if Israel intensifies any attacks, some hostages will be killed.
The issue of Israel and hostages
According to Israeli officials, HAMAS members are still holding 59 hostages. Of these, 24 are alive, and 35 are deceased. Among the hostages are a young soldier with Israeli and German citizenship, as well as a Thai citizen.
The possibility of a peace agreement and its violation
In January of this year, Israel and HAMAS reached an agreement to temporarily cease hostilities in Gaza, mediated by the US, Qatar, and Egypt. This agreement came into effect on January 19, and its first phase concluded on March 1. During the first phase, 33 Israeli hostages were released, including the bodies of eight individuals returned to Israel. In exchange, Israel released over 1,500 Palestinian prisoners.
However, no agreement has yet been reached to extend the ceasefire after March 1. Israeli officials have stated that if HAMAS does not continue to release hostages, they are preparing to resume military actions.
Preparation for a new phase
Tensions between Israel and HAMAS are intensifying. If the parties do not reach an agreement through negotiations, a new military conflict may begin in the Gaza Strip in the coming days. This could lead to even more severe consequences for civilians.