(Al Jazeera Media Network) The armed wing of Hamas has released what it calls a “farewell picture” of 48 Israeli captives held in Gaza as the Israeli army continues to destroy and seize the besieged enclave’s largest urban centre.
Qassam Brigades posted a compilation photo online on Saturday, showing the faces of all living and deceased captives, with each of them captioned “Ron Arad” in reference to the Israeli air force captain who went missing in Lebanon in 1986.
Arad’s F-4 Phantom suffered a premature bomb detonation during an attack on southern Lebanon. He was captured by the Amal Movement and later handed over to Hezbollah. Arad is believed to have died, but conclusive proof is not available about his fate.
The image released by Hamas was accompanied by a text, stating: “Because of Netanyahu’s refusal, and Zamir’s capitulation, a farewell picture as the military operation in Gaza City begins.”
Israeli authorities have said they believe about 20 captives are still being held alive in Gaza, whereas United States President Donald Trump has suggested fewer than 20 could be alive. Trump and Netanyahu have repeatedly said they will bring back all living and dead captives and “destroy” Hamas.
