Hamas releases “Farewell Picture” of 48 Israeli hostages

Hamas’s Qassam Brigades released a compilation photo of 48 Israeli hostages, labeling it a “farewell picture” as Israeli forces intensify their assault on Gaza City.

The images show both living and deceased captives, each captioned “Ron Arad,” referencing the Israeli air force officer who went missing in Lebanon in 1986.

Alongside the photo, Hamas issued a statement saying: “Because of Netanyahu’s refusal, and Zamir’s capitulation, a farewell picture as the military operation in Gaza City begins.”

This statement targets Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has rejected negotiations with Hamas, and army chief Eyal Zamir, who has questioned the government’s plan to seize Gaza City.

Israeli officials estimate around 20 captives remain alive in Gaza, while US President Donald Trump suggests the number may be lower. Both leaders have vowed to recover all captives and “destroy” Hamas.

The conflict has resulted in a devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, Israeli strikes have killed at least 65,208 people and wounded 166,271 since October 2023. Following Israel’s breach of a ceasefire on March 18, 12,653 Palestinians have been killed and 54,230 injured.

The release of the “farewell” image comes amid large-scale protests expected in Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities. Demonstrators are demanding a deal to secure the captives’ return and halt the war.

The images have drawn sharp condemnation from captive families, Israeli authorities, and international allies, including the United States.

Hamas has warned that Israeli bombings and the ongoing ground offensive place captives’ lives at risk, alleging that some have already been killed by airstrikes.