Background on Hamas and the Current Conflict
Hamas, a Palestinian Islamic organization that has controlled the Gaza Strip since 2007, is currently engaged in a conflict with Israel. The dispute escalated on October 7, 2023, when Hamás launched an attack in southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of over 1,200 people, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official data.
In retaliation, Israel initiated a military operation in the Gaza Strip. The conflict has led to severe consequences, with over 66,000 fatalities reported, primarily civilians, as per the health ministry of Hamás, which is recognized for its reliability by the United Nations.
Hamas Loses Contact with Two Hostages
On Sunday, Hamás’s armed wing, the Ezedin al Qasam Brigades, announced that they had lost contact with two hostages amid the intense Israeli bombardment of Gaza City over the past 48 hours.
“Due to the brutal military operations and violent attacks in the Sabra and Tal al Hawa neighborhoods during the last 48 hours,” the group stated in a press release, referring to areas where Israeli forces have intensified their aerial and ground assaults.
Hamás urged the Israeli forces to withdraw immediately south of Street 8 and cease aerial operations for 24 hours starting at 18:00 on that day to facilitate hostage rescue attempts.
Previous Incidents and Israeli Orders
This is not the first time Hamás has reported losing contact with a hostage. For instance, an Israeli-American was released shortly after Hamás announced losing contact with another hostage.
Throughout the ongoing offensive in Gaza City, the Israeli military has repeatedly ordered Palestinians to move southward on multiple occasions.
Casualties and Hostage Situation
Gaza’s Civil Defense, an organization operating under Hamás’ authority, reported 38 fatalities on Sunday, including 14 in Gaza City.
Out of the 251 people taken captive during the October 7 attack, 47 remain held in Gaza, with 25 reportedly considered dead by the Israeli military. Of these captives, 47 are still being held in Gaza, with 25 reportedly confirmed dead by the Israeli military.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Hamás? Hamás is a Palestinian Islamic organization that has governed the Gaza Strip since 2007.
- What triggered the current conflict? The dispute escalated on October 7, 2023, when Hamás launched an attack in southern Israel, resulting in numerous civilian casualties.
- What is the status of hostages? Amidst the conflict, Hamás reported losing contact with two hostages. Out of 251 people taken captive during the initial attack, 47 remain held in Gaza, with 25 reportedly confirmed dead by the Israeli military.
