Hamas Issues New Instructions Amidst Hostage Crisis

Hamas' armed wing announced new guidelines for handling hostages if Israeli forces approach in Gaza. Israel claims Hamas is responsible for the deaths of six hostages. Tensions remain high as efforts to negotiate an end to the conflict and the release of hostages have so far failed.

CAIRO, Sept 2 (Reuters) - Hamas' armed wing, al-Qassam Brigades, has introduced new directives for guards on handling hostages if Israeli forces approach their locations in Gaza. The announcement came from spokesperson Abu Ubaida on Monday.

This development follows the Israeli military's report on Sunday about recovering the bodies of six hostages from a tunnel in Rafah. The military holds Hamas accountable for their deaths, a charge denied by the militant group, which instead blames Israel.

The new instructions come after a June rescue operation by Israel, which freed four hostages but resulted in the deaths of many Palestinians. The conflict persists as Israel and Hamas fail to reach a deal to end the war and release hostages, with both sides presenting contrasting demands.

(With inputs from agencies.)