A spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing has issued a warning that militants may execute civilian hostages in response to Israeli attacks on civilian homes in Gaza. Abu Obeida, a spokesman for the Qassam Brigades, denounced intense Israeli strikes in Gaza’s densely populated civilian areas in an audio statement released on Monday. There are also reports of Hamas threatening to harm US citizens captured during their surprise raids on Israel on Saturday if the US continues to support Tel Aviv.
However, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a statement on Tuesday, assuring the American public that while there is no specific and credible intelligence indicating a direct threat to the United States, the agency is closely monitoring unfolding events and stands ready to ensure the safety and security of its citizens. The FBI emphasized its commitment to working with law enforcement partners at various levels to safeguard public safety.
Abu Obeida, representing Hamas’s military wing, the Qassam Brigades, emphasized their response to the heavy bombardment of Gaza’s residential areas, resulting in collapsing homes and casualties. He stated that any future targeting of their people in their homes without prior warning may lead to the execution of civilian hostages held by Hamas.
Meanwhile, the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) have regained “full control of the Gaza border” after sections of the border fence were destroyed during Hamas’s attack. The IDF has reported that no terrorists entered through the fence in the last day, and they continue to strike multiple Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the images of devastation seen from militant strongholds were just the beginning, and the Israeli authorities ordered a “complete siege” of Gaza. Defence Minister Yoav Gallant outlined plans to cut off supplies of electricity, food, and fuel to the Palestinian enclave, describing the conflict as a battle against ruthless adversaries.
The situation has led to Israel officially declaring war on Hamas, with Israeli airstrikes continuing into the third day. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reported numerous casualties, including many children and women, while the conflict has also affected US citizens, with at least 11 confirmed killed in Israel.
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) reported that emergency shelters in Gaza are at 90 percent capacity, providing refuge for over 137,000 people seeking safety from Israeli strikes. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas urged the United Nations to take action against ongoing “Israeli aggression” towards Palestinians, calling for immediate international intervention.
Israel Defence Forces (IDF) reported that approximately 30 hostages are being held by Hamas in Gaza. Amid the conflict, Qatar has been involved in mediation talks with Hamas and Israeli officials, including discussions about a possible prisoner exchange involving Israeli women and children seized by the militant group and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody.
The violence has resulted in numerous casualties and international expressions of support for Israel, as well as calls for an end to the conflict while ensuring the protection of civilians.
