Israel-Hamas Conflict: Hamas threatens to harm civilian hostages amid Gaza blockade; situation worrisome

Israel-Hamas Conflict: Hamas, the Palestinian group in Gaza, has issued a threat to harm civilian hostages following Israel's implementation of a complete blockade on the Gaza Strip and the cessation of water supply. The ongoing conflict has resulted in a tragic loss of life, with a reported death toll of at least 1,600 persons.

The militant branch of the Hamas has declared that any attacks on their people without prior notice would result in the execution of the civilians hostages. According to reports, approximately 100 persons have been held hostage by this group.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a commitment to severely damage Hamas-controlled regions, leading to concerns from the United Nations about potential violations of international humanitarian law. The PM emphasised that Israel did not initiate this conflict, but was compelled to engage due to aggressive and brutal actions.

He stated, "Israel is currently in a state of war. We did not seek out this conflict; it was imposed upon us in a cruel and violent manner. Nevertheless, although Israel did not initiate this war, we are determined to bring it to a conclusion."

Israel military regains full control of Gaza border

Israel Defense Forces' top spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari stressed that the military has regained full control of the Gaza border after Hamas terrorists blew up sections of the border fence during the attack on Saturday, reported The Times of Israel. Adding to this, he noted that not even a single terrorist entered via the fence. "In the last day, not a single terrorist entered via the fence," he said. It further noted that the forces continue to carry out scans in order to ensure the killing of terrorists who are hiding.

Hamas holding up to 150 hostages in Gaza

As Israel Hamas conflict enters the fourth day, the Israeli authorities highlighted that up to 150 hostages are being held in Gaza as Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant ordered a "complete siege" of the Gaza Strip, Permanent Representative of Israel to the United Nations Gilad Erdan said, CNN reported.

Speaking to CNN, Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan on late Monday said that their situation would not "prevent us from doing what we need to do in order to secure the future of Israel."

He further said that the authorities hope these hostages return to their homes safely, according to CNN.

1,600 civilians, soldiers have died on both sides

Since the onset of the offensive on Saturday, approximately 1,600 persons, comprising both civilians and soldiers from both sides, have lost their lives. This grim toll encompasses more than 900 casualties in Israel, which has expressed its determination to heavily target Hamas installations in Gaza, potentially leading to their destruction. Meanwhile, the death toll in Gaza has climbed to 687.

11 American citizens have died in Israel-Hamas conflict The United States has officially verified the fatalities of 11 American citizens in the Israel-Hamas conflict and has raised concerns about the potential captivity of additional Americans by Hamas. However, the White House has firmly stated that the United States does not have any plans to become militarily engaged in this conflict. Furthermore, they have issued warnings to Iran and other parties, advising against any involvement in the situation.

- With inputs from agencies

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