Hamas Claims Hostages Were Executed to Prevent Rescue; Protests Erupt in Israel Over Netanyahu’s Handling

Hamas suggested on Monday that the six Israeli hostages recently found dead were deliberately executed to prevent their rescue by Israeli forces.

This claim was made by Abu Ubaida, a spokesperson for Hamas’ military branch, the Al-Qassam Brigades. In a statement reported by Axios, Ubaida implied that new orders were issued to Hamas fighters on how to handle prisoners if Israeli forces approached their detention sites.

This follows a recent operation by Israel in Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp, which resulted in the rescue of five hostages, including Noa Argamani, whose capture was widely publicised.

The hostages recently found dead were identified as Almog Sarusi, 27, Eden Yerushalmi, 24, Ori Danino, 25, Alex Lobanov, 32, Carmel Gat, 40, and Hersh Goldberg-Polin, 23, an American-Israeli.

The six hostages discovered dead on Saturday. via REUTERS

According to Israeli officials, these individuals had been shot at point-blank range multiple times, and their deaths occurred two to three days before they were discovered by Israel Defense Force (IDF) troops. They had been held in captivity for approximately 11 months before their bodies were found.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that the hostages had been shot in the back of the head. Israeli officials believe that the hostages were executed as the IDF closed in on their location, indicating that Hamas’ recent statements align with suspicions that the hostages were killed to prevent their imminent rescue.

The execution of these hostages has sparked significant unrest in Israel, leading to widespread protests. Many demonstrators have directed their anger at Prime Minister Netanyahu, accusing him of failing to secure the release of the hostages. According to Israeli estimates, approximately 102 hostages remain in Hamas’ custody.

Sami Abu Zuhri, a senior official with Hamas, criticised Netanyahu in a statement, suggesting that the prime minister’s actions were responsible for the hostages’ deaths.

Abu Zuhri also indicated that the Israelis face a stark choice between supporting Netanyahu or pursuing a cease-fire plan. Netanyahu has expressed reservations about the proposed cease-fire, partly because it does not guarantee the eradication of Hamas.

The situation continues to evolve as both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with the conflict showing no immediate signs of resolution.

Dan Olczak

"Editor with expertise in politics and crime, also known for travel blogging."

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