Release the Hostages and Surrender

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Thursday issued a clear message to Hamas terrorists to release their hostages, lay down their weapons, come out and surrender following the killing of Hamas leader Yaiha Shinwar. .

Mr. Gallant said in a statement (emphasis added):

The State of Israel has brought justice by eliminating Yahya Sinwar, a despicable murderer and terrorist. Yahya Sinwar is a terrorist and a master terrorist who planned and executed the October 7 attacks. [massacre]During that time, so many innocent Israelis were killed, including children, women, and the elderly.

Sinwar's removal joins a long string of removals from Nasrallah to Muhammad Deif. [terrorists]. We will track down and eliminate the enemy.

Sinwar was beaten, persecuted, and died on the run. He died not as a commander, but as a man who thought only of himself. This is a clear message to all our enemies. The IDF will contact anyone who attempts to harm Israeli citizens or security forces and will bring you to justice.

Yahya Sinwar's removal sends a clear message to the families of all fallen soldiers and hostages. We are doing everything we can to find those who harmed your loved ones and free hostages and return them to their families.

This is also a clear message to the people of Gaza. The end has come for the man who brought disaster and death to the Gaza Strip, the man who made you suffer as a result of his brutality. It's time to go, free the hostages, [to those involved in fighting] Raise your hands and surrender. Go out with the hostages, free them, and surrender.

It is my honor to pay tribute to the dedication of IDF soldiers, the Chief of Staff, and the Director of the ISA.

Mr. Sinwar was killed on Wednesday in a chance encounter with infantry and armored troops near Rafah in southern Gaza as he was trying to flee to Egypt. The soldiers were surprised to discover his body. His identity was confirmed on Thursday.