Israeli Concerns Over Hostages Surge After Hamas Chief’s Death
Following an Israeli air strike that killed Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Israelis are increasingly worried about the fate of hostages held in Gaza. Haniyeh's death threatens ongoing negotiations, say Haifa residents. Hamas warns that the killing will escalate the conflict, with enormous repercussions for the region.
Following the Israeli air strike that killed Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran, Israelis are increasingly worried about the fate of hostages held in Gaza.
Haniyeh, 61, was in Tehran for President Masoud Pezeshkian's swearing-in ceremony.
The killing threatens ongoing negotiations, according to Haifa resident Anat Noy.
Hamas and the Iranian Revolutionary Guards confirmed Haniyeh’s death, warning that it escalates the conflict with enormous regional repercussions.
Since the conflict began, 1,197 Israelis and 39,445 Palestinians have died.
Negotiations mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. remain stalemated.
Hostages and Missing Families Forum stressed the urgency of a deal, while Tel Aviv residents express anxiety over further reactions from Hamas and Hezbollah.