Hamas Spokesperson Abu Ubeida Confirms Israeli Hostages in Gaza

Amid ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Abu Ubeida, the spokesperson for Hamas’s military wing, Izz al-Din al-Qassam Brigades, revealed the presence of 200 to 250 Israeli hostages in Gaza. He expressed determination in the face of any potential ground operation by the Israeli army and pledged that Gaza would be a formidable challenge for occupiers. Ubeida emphasized the hostages’ humane treatment, referring to them as guests who would be released as conditions permit. He also lamented that 22 hostages had lost their lives in Israeli bombardments.