A Times Square billboard displays images of the gaunt Israeli hostages released by Hamas along with the words 'Hamas are savages.' (X Screenshot)
Hamas demanded that the IDF withdraw south of Street No. 8 and suspend air activity for 24 hours “so that attempts can be made to extract the captives.” The unusually precise reference to the hostages’ reported location marked a first for the terror group.
By Vered Weiss, World Israel News
Hamas claimed Sunday it had lost contact with two Israeli hostages during intensified Israeli operations in Gaza City, although the terror group’s instructions betrayed hints of the captives’ locations.
Recently, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) reported that it has taken about half of Gaza City as its extensive operation in the area continues.
In a statement, Hamas’ Al-Qassam Brigades said communication with the captives was severed in the past 48 hours amid heavy fighting in the Sabra and Tel al-Hawa neighborhoods.
The terror group demanded that the IDF withdraw south of Street No. 8 and suspend air activity for 24 hours “so that attempts can be made to extract the captives.” The unusually precise reference to the hostages’ reported location marked a first for Hamas.
Both captives were kidnapped during Hamas’ October 7, 2023, assault on southern Israel, which ignited the current war.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said the families of the two captives were working with authorities to assess the Hamas statement. They requested that their names not be publicized.
According to Israeli figures, 48 hostages remain in Gaza.
Of the 251 people abducted on Oct. 7, 47 are believed to be in captivity. The IDF has confirmed that at least 26 of them are dead. Twenty are thought to be alive, while there are serious concerns about the condition of two others.
Among the bodies Hamas holds is that of an IDF officer killed in Gaza in 2014.
Meanwhile, residents reported Israeli ground forces advancing in multiple areas of Gaza City, including Al-Nasr, Sheikh Radwan, and the Al-Shati refugee camp in the north, as well as Tel al-Hawa and Sabra in the south.
The IDF said its 98th Division has expanded control around the city, targeting Hamas positions in coordination with the air force.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed in a Fox News interview that Israel is working with US President Donald Trump’s team on a proposal aimed at dismantling Hamas, securing the release of hostages, and demilitarizing Gaza.
Some families of captives have warned they will step up protests if no deal is reached before Netanyahu returns from the United States.
Democratic leader stops short of backing Senate effort to restrict expanded US-Israel defense cooperation.
Treasury Secretary Bessent faces reported Iranian threats; acting Attorney General Blanche also occupies military housing.
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