Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to bring those responsible for the killing of six hostages from Hamas captivity in Gaza to justice. He stated that whoever murders hostages does not want a deal, emphasizing Israel’s commitment to achieving a deal for the release of remaining hostages and ensuring security. The impasse in negotiations revolves around control of key border corridors, with Israel insisting on retaining control to prevent smuggling and catch militant fighters, while Hamas demands full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The bodies of the six hostages were recovered in an underground tunnel in the Gaza Strip, with Israeli forces continuing their offensive in Jenin, in the occupied West Bank. This offensive has resulted in the death of 14 Palestinians and extensive damage to civilian properties and infrastructure. In response to the hostage deaths, the Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid has called for a strike to pressure the government to reach a deal for the release of remaining hostages.
Hamas has blamed Israel for the deaths of the hostages, citing the refusal to sign a ceasefire agreement. The Hostages Families Forum has condemned Netanyahu for failing to agree on a deal and demanded accountability for the deaths of the hostages. Meanwhile, a large-scale polio vaccination campaign is underway in Gaza to prevent an outbreak, with reports of limited pauses in fighting to facilitate the campaign despite ongoing airstrikes by Israel. The situation remains tense, with calls for a lasting ceasefire and efforts to address humanitarian concerns in the region.
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