SAEDNEWS: Hamas has released a “farewell picture” of 48 Israeli captives as Israel intensifies attacks on Gaza City, raising global concern over the hostages’ safety.
The armed wing of Hamas has released what it calls a “farewell picture” of 48 Israeli captives held in Gaza, as Israel continues to target and destroy Gaza City, the besieged enclave’s largest urban center. The release comes at a time of heightened tension and mounting international concern over the hostages’ safety.
The Qassam Brigades, Hamas’ military wing, published a compilation photo online on Saturday showing the faces of all living and deceased captives. Each photo was captioned “Ron Arad,” referencing the Israeli air force captain who went missing in Lebanon in 1986. Arad’s F-4 Phantom suffered a premature bomb detonation during an attack on southern Lebanon. He was captured by the Amal Movement and later handed over to Hezbollah. While believed dead, definitive proof of his fate remains unavailable.
Accompanying the photo was a text stating: “Because of Netanyahu’s refusal, and Zamir’s capitulation, a farewell picture as the military operation in Gaza City begins.” The reference highlighted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s repeated rejection of agreements with Hamas and Israeli army chief Eyal Zamir’s role in leading the expanding air and ground attacks despite publicly questioning the government’s “conquest” plans.
Israeli authorities estimate around 20 captives remain alive in Gaza, while former US President Donald Trump suggested fewer than 20 may survive. Both Trump and Netanyahu have repeatedly vowed to recover all captives, dead or alive, and “destroy” Hamas in the process.
Hamas has warned that intensifying Israeli strikes could endanger the captives’ lives. Reports indicate that some hostages have already been killed by Israeli bombs, and the remaining captives are reportedly scattered across neighborhoods in Gaza City, making their safe retrieval increasingly complex.
The repeated reference to Ron Arad in the captions draws on Israel’s history of unresolved hostage cases. Arad was captured after a failed bombing mission in 1986 and became a symbol of Israel’s long-standing struggle to secure the return of its missing soldiers. By invoking Arad, Hamas frames the current captives within a historical narrative of Israeli military and political challenges.
The images have ignited outrage internationally, particularly among Israeli families, government officials, and US allies. Humanitarian groups and international observers have called for restraint to avoid further casualties among hostages.
The release coincides with planned demonstrations across Israel, where hundreds of thousands of citizens are expected to protest in Tel Aviv and other cities. Protesters are demanding an immediate, comprehensive deal to end the war and bring back all captives safely.
Earlier in September, Hamas released videos of two Israeli captives, following a prior broadcast showing two more emaciated hostages, one reportedly seen digging his own grave. These releases serve as both psychological pressure on Israeli authorities and a method of controlling the narrative surrounding the ongoing conflict.
Experts suggest that these strategically timed media releases amplify international scrutiny and political pressure, aiming to influence public opinion and negotiation dynamics.
Israeli forces have continued to intensify attacks on Gaza City, targeting key areas allegedly linked to Hamas operations. The assault has caused extensive destruction, further endangering civilians and hostages alike.
Military analysts note that Gaza City’s dense urban layout complicates rescue operations, with hostages potentially used as human shields. The release of the “farewell picture” appears to serve as a stark warning regarding the imminent dangers posed by Israel’s continued military campaign.
Families of captives, human rights groups, and international agencies have expressed grave concern for the safety and humane treatment of all hostages. Calls for negotiations and international mediation are intensifying, highlighting the complexity of resolving the crisis amid active combat operations.
Humanitarian experts stress that the protection of hostages must remain a priority, even as military objectives proceed. The psychological impact on families, coupled with the uncertainty surrounding the captives’ condition, has heightened tensions in Israel and beyond.
The “farewell picture” released by Hamas underscores the volatility of the ongoing Gaza conflict and the precarious situation of the hostages. With Israel advancing ground and air operations in Gaza City, the risk to civilians and captives grows daily.
International observers warn that a diplomatic solution is urgently needed to prevent further loss of life, while political leaders grapple with balancing military objectives and humanitarian obligations. As images circulate globally, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a resolution that ensures the safe return of all captives and a path toward de-escalation.
