Hamas' New Hostage Protocols: Escalation Amid Gaza Tensions

Hamas' armed wing announced new instructions for handling hostages if Israeli forces approach in Gaza. This follows the recovery of six hostages' bodies by Israel, who were reportedly shot by their captors. Hamas blames Israel for their deaths, raising tensions as the conflict continues without resolution.

In a key development, Hamas' armed wing disclosed new guidelines for handling hostages in case of an Israeli forces approach in Gaza. The update follows the tragic recovery of six hostages' bodies by the Israeli military; they had been shot by their captors.

Abu Ubaida, spokesperson for Hamas' al-Qassam Brigades, withheld specific details about the new instructions but attributed the deaths to Israeli actions. These rules were reportedly issued after a June rescue operation where Israeli forces freed four hostages but killed dozens of Palestinians.

Prime Minister Netanyahu has vowed that Hamas will face severe repercussions, while Hamas officials argue that Israel's leadership is responsible for the hostages' deaths and the ongoing conflict. Efforts to broker a deal for the hostages' release remain at an impasse, exacerbating the tensions further.

(With inputs from agencies.)