**Hamas Releases ‘Farewell Picture’ of Israeli Captives Amid Gaza Offensive**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 21, 2025, 10:19 AM*
Hamas’s armed wing, the Qassam Brigades, has released a “farewell picture” of 48 Israeli captives on social media. The image, which includes both living and deceased individuals, identifies all as “Ron Arad,” referring to the Israeli air force officer who disappeared in Lebanon in 1986.
This release coincides with an intensified Israeli military offensive in Gaza City, where forces are targeting underground tunnels and booby-trapped buildings.
**Hamas Sends Message to Israeli Leadership**
Alongside the image, Hamas directed a critical message toward Israeli leaders. The group accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of “intransigence” and Army Chief Eyal Zamir of “submission,” stating:
“Because of Netanyahu’s intransigence and Zamir’s submission: A farewell picture at the start of the operation in Gaza City.”
The statement comes amid heavy fighting in Gaza City, where recent strikes have reportedly killed at least 60 Palestinians.
**Concerns Over Hostages’ Safety**
Hamas claims the captives are scattered across various neighborhoods in Gaza City and remain at grave risk due to ongoing Israeli bombardments. The group has previously released videos showing hostages in poor health. One video notably depicts a captive digging what appeared to be his own grave.
These videos have drawn strong condemnation from hostage families as well as international allies, including the United States, which denounces them as acts of psychological warfare.
**Public Outcry and Protests in Israel**
The release of the “farewell” picture is expected to fuel mass protests in Tel Aviv and other Israeli cities. Demonstrators are demanding that the Israeli government secure a deal to release the captives and call for an end to the conflict.
Meanwhile, the Israeli military continues its offensive with a focus on underground shafts and booby-trapped sites in Gaza City.
**Intensified Demolition Campaign in Gaza**
Israel has escalated its demolition campaign against high-rise buildings in Gaza City this week. Troops are concentrating efforts on the Sheikh Radwan and Tel Al-Hawa neighborhoods as part of the broader assault.
Military estimates suggest that up to 20 tower blocks have been destroyed in the last two weeks. Reports from Israeli media indicate that over 500,000 residents have fled Gaza City since early September, though Hamas disputes this figure.
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*Stay updated on this developing story and follow reactions on social media as tensions escalate.*
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/hamas-shares-farewell-photo-of-48-israeli-captives/story