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Hamas Unveils Additional Video Featuring Israeli Captive and Reiterates Demand for Palestinian State Prior to Surrendering Arms | Gaza

Hamas has reiterated its position that it will not disarm until a fully sovereign Palestinian state, with Jerusalem as its capital, is established. This is reflected in their latest video release showcasing an Israeli hostage within a span of two days.

In response to a key Israeli demand to cease the conflict in Gaza, Hamas, which has governed the territory since 2007, maintains its right to armed resistance, contingent on the establishment of an independent state.

Negotiations between Hamas and Israel regarding a 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza conflict and the release of hostages ended last week without progress.


Recently, Hamas released its second video featuring hostage Evyatar David, showing him digging a hole which he states is for his grave, highlighting the dire situation due to Israeli restrictions on food and other essentials, sparking global calls for a ceasefire.

These hostage videos have highlighted the deteriorating conditions as both captives and captors face starvation. This message has been underscored by the United Nations, stating that a worst-case scenario famine is unfolding in Gaza.

David’s family demands that aid entering Gaza also reaches their son, emphasizing his critical condition. Thousands have gathered in Tel Aviv, calling for an end to the war and the immediate release of hostages.

Of the 251 hostages taken during the Hamas attack, 49 remain in captivity, including 27 believed to be dead by the Israeli military. Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, has met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss a plan that could bring an end to the conflict.

Global condemnation has risen over Israel’s restrictions on aid and the violence at distribution sites, with the UN reporting numerous deaths among Palestinians trying to access food and aid.

Israel’s latest measures, such as pausing combat in specific areas and airdrops, have been deemed insufficient by the UN, which insists on the increased and expedited delivery of aid through land routes.

Saturday saw a further seven Palestinians, including a child, die due to malnutrition, bringing the total since the war to 93. International calls have intensified for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, including from Germany and France.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/aug/03/israel-gaza-war-hamas-releases-second-video-of-hostage

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