Abu Obeida, the spokesperson for Hamas's military wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, has issued a warning regarding the safety of hostages held in Gaza.

He stated that approximately half of the living captives are located in areas where the Israeli military has recently issued evacuation orders. ​

Abu Obeida emphasized that Hamas has chosen not to relocate these hostages from the affected zones, implementing stringent security measures that he described as "extremely dangerous to their lives." He urged Israeli authorities to engage in immediate negotiations for the hostages' evacuation or release, asserting that the Israeli government bears full responsibility for their well-being. ​

This development coincides with intensified Israeli military actions in Gaza. Israeli forces have expanded their ground offensive, particularly in northern Gaza's Shujaiya neighborhood, aiming to establish a "security zone" and exert pressure on Hamas for the hostages' release. These operations have led to significant displacement of residents and raised international concerns about the humanitarian situation. ​

The ongoing conflict traces back to October 2023, when Hamas initiated an attack on Israel, resulting in over 1,100 Israeli deaths and the capture of approximately 200 hostages. In response, Israel launched extensive military operations in Gaza, leading to substantial casualties and widespread destruction within the enclave. ​

Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and facilitate hostage releases have faced numerous obstacles. While some hostages were freed during earlier ceasefire agreements, recent talks have stalled, prompting Israel to intensify its military campaign. Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu has expressed a commitment to increasing pressure on Hamas to secure the remaining hostages' release. ​

The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with growing calls for renewed diplomatic efforts to address the humanitarian crisis and prevent further escalation of the conflict. (ILKHA)