The Israeli Air Force targeted 60 Hamas sites in Gaza on Saturday, ramping up its military operations as the ceasefire faltered.
According to the Israeli Defense Forces, at least two armed terrorists were killed in northern Gaza, while Hamas fighters attacked a booby-trapped building in the southern Morag corridor.
Israeli forces also reported that additional terrorist infrastructure was dismantled in the southern city of Rafa.
In the past 24 hours, about 23 Hamas members have reportedly been killed, with many others injured due to the air strikes.
This week, Israel approved a new strategy that significantly escalates military action against Hamas over the coming months, should the group refuse to agree to a ceasefire and release hostages by May 16th.
Israel has imposed an aid blockade on the region to pressure Hamas into releasing and disarming the remaining hostages. Since the war began on October 7, 2023, terrorist groups have claimed that food and supplies have been siphoned off.
On Saturday, Hamas released another controversial video featuring two hostages, Elkana Bobot and Joseph Heim Ohana, just as mass protests in Israel were calling for the release of hostages.
These two individuals were captured during the Nova Music Festival.
Hamas had begun releasing these videos a month and a half ago, showcasing Bobot in particular.
Elkana Bobot’s family responded, expressing their anguish: “How much can we endure? How much can they endure?”
“The fact that they are still there — that’s a disgrace,” the family added. “Elkana and Joseph are screaming to be rescued.”
Out of the 59 hostages still in Hamas custody, only 25 are believed to be alive.
Other families of hostages have also made heartfelt appeals, many advocating for a ceasefire.
“Don’t give up on us,” urged Mrah Zangauker, the mother of hostage Einav Zangerker, specifically appealing to President Trump.
“The people who came back did that thanks to President Trump,” she remarked. “And we need to stay involved until the last hostage gets home.”
