Hamas is calling on Israel to fall back and retreat amid an essential Gaza offensive to disarm and defeat the terror group. Ynet reports that the retreat would be for Hamas to “rescue” the hostages whose whereabouts have become unknown.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said the families whose relatives’ names were published are in contact with the authorized parties and are examining Hamas’ statement. The families asked that the hostages’ names not be published.
Israel’s security establishment estimates that there are a few living hostages being held in Gaza City during the IDF’s ground operation there as part of Gideon’s Chariots II, while Hamas says about 10 hostages remain alive.
Hamas’ announcement comes as the world’s attention is focused on an upcoming meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House. A 21-point initiative that would see the comprehensive release of all hostages within three days is reportedly on the table.
Hamas has never been known to act in good faith, and any claims it makes are, at best, dubious. The terror group has often used hostages as leverage and has prevented civilians from leaving Gaza. Israeli officials have said that the 21-point initiative to release the remaining hostages in Gaza can be implemented, while Hamas rejects the notion that they had ever received such a proposal.
The Fellowship and its faithful supporters continue to pray for the hostages currently in Gaza and their families, who have lived with this pain for almost two years now. Let us pray with unwavering hope for an end to this war – and for peace and security for Israel.
