Hamas is continuing to exploit Israeli hostages as part of an information campaign designed to pressure Israel into accepting a ceasefire-hostage agreement on terms favorable to Hamas.
The militant group released its third propaganda video on September 3, following the recent execution of six Israeli hostages. In the latest video, a recently killed Israeli hostage calls for a ceasefire, emphasizing Hamas’ stance that negotiations—not military operations—are the only way to secure the release of living hostages.
Read :Hamas Uses Hostage Videos To Pressure Israel And Influence Ceasefire Talks
Hamas military spokesperson Abu Obeida blamed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for the deaths of the six hostages, while also indicating that new instructions had been given to Hamas fighters guarding other captives in the event of Israeli military action.
These messages, delivered in multiple languages including Arabic, English, and Hebrew, are intended to sway both Israeli and international opinion in favor of a ceasefire and to undermine support for Israel’s military operations in Gaza.
Senior Hamas official Mahmoud Mardawi reiterated in a statement to Al Jazeera that hostages will only be released through a prisoner exchange deal, contingent on Israel’s complete withdrawal from key areas, including the Netzarim and Philadelphi corridors. The withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, particularly the Philadelphi Corridor, remains a significant hurdle in ceasefire negotiations.
Read: IDF Recovers Bodies Of Six Israeli Hostages Executed By Hamas In Rafah Tunnel
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, during a press conference on September 3, doubled down on Israel’s need to maintain control over the Philadelphi Corridor, arguing that previous Israeli disengagement from the area allowed Hamas to become a significant threat through weapons smuggling.
He warned that international pressure could make it difficult for Israel to reestablish control over the corridor if it were to withdraw now.
In contrast, U.S. National Security Advisor John Kirby stated on the same day that Israel had previously agreed to a U.S.-mediated ceasefire proposal in May 2024, which required the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to withdraw from densely populated areas near the Philadelphi Corridor.
Read: Protests, Strikes Erupt Across Israel After Six Hostages Killed By Hamas In Gaza
Kirby’s comments suggest that this provision remains a key aspect of ongoing negotiations, although Netanyahu has reportedly agreed to withdraw Israeli forces from a limited section of the corridor as part of a potential deal.
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