Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, issued a severe warning on Sunday, declaring that no hostages would be released alive unless its demands for prisoner releases are met, reported by YahooNews.
This statement comes amid a dire humanitarian situation in Gaza following more than two months of conflict.
The war, triggered by Hamas' deadliest-ever attack on Israel on October 7, has seen a staggering loss of life and destruction. Israel's military offensive in response has led to the deaths of at least 17,997 people, mostly women and children, as per the Hamas-run health ministry.
The situation has escalated to the brink of a health and humanitarian crisis, with aid groups warning of disease and starvation.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, highlighted the dire state of Gaza's health system, noting that only 14 of 36 hospitals are functioning.
The WHO's executive board adopted a resolution calling for immediate, unimpeded aid deliveries.
The conflict has displaced approximately 1.9 million of Gaza's 2.4 million residents, with many seeking refuge in bombed-out structures like the ruins of Gaza City's Al-Shifa hospital.
Mohammed Daloul, a displaced resident, described the living conditions as "a living hell," with fundamental necessities like electricity, water, and medicine in severe shortage.
Amidst the escalating tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu urged Hamas to surrender, declaring the beginning of the end for the militant group.
In response to the crisis, the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, criticized the Security Council for being "divided and paralyzed," failing to agree on a ceasefire. The situation is further complicated by geopolitical dynamics, with potential regional escalations and threats from various groups.
