In a bold move, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is prepared to offer substantial financial rewards and safe passage for hostage captors in Gaza who release their captives. An Israeli official confirmed that Netanyahu is willing to pay “several million dollars” for the release of each hostage, alongside guaranteed safe passage out of Gaza for the captors and their families. The proposal, discussed with Israel’s hostage negotiation team, aims to expedite the safe return of hostages amid escalating conflict in the Gaza Strip.
This news follows the US State Department’s statement on Monday, which revealed Hamas’s rejection of a ceasefire and hostage release deal. Despite Egypt’s proposal for a 12-day truce and the release of a few hostages, Hamas demands longer-term assurances, which Israel has not agreed to.
Civilian Evacuations and Humanitarian Aid Efforts
As Israel’s ground offensive continues in northern Gaza, particularly in the town of Jabalia, the majority of residents have been evacuated, according to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Around 55,000 civilians have been moved from the area, with Hamas allegedly forcing some residents to stay behind as “human shields.” The IDF has established a humanitarian corridor to facilitate civilian movements and claims to have evidence of Hamas blocking or punishing those attempting to leave.
To support the population amidst the ongoing conflict, Israel has connected the Khan Younis desalination plant to its grid, a move that allows for increased access to clean water for those in the southern humanitarian zone. Operated by UNICEF, this facility can produce 20,000 cubic meters of water daily and aims to meet some of the immediate needs of displaced residents.
Military Operations and Casualties
The Jabalia offensive marks the fourth IDF push into this northern Gaza stronghold. Military officials believe the campaign may significantly weaken Hamas’s stronghold in northern Gaza, where numerous buildings have been found rigged with explosives. In the course of this operation, the IDF has reportedly captured 700 militants, many of whom have provided valuable intelligence, while also killing over 1,000 combatants in the region.
Hamas’s health ministry claims that over 43,000 Palestinians have been killed or are presumed dead in the ongoing conflict, though this figure has not been independently verified. Meanwhile, the IDF states that over 18,000 Hamas fighters have been killed in the Gaza battles.
American Military Losses
In a separate development, the US Army confirmed the death of Sergeant Quandarius Davon Stanley, who sustained injuries while supporting humanitarian operations near Gaza in May. His death serves as a reminder of the international dimensions of this crisis, as humanitarian assistance continues to flow into the conflict zone.
This latest escalation highlights the urgency of a diplomatic resolution, while both Israeli and Palestinian leaders stand firm in their respective positions.