Hamas threatens to execute 1 Israeli captive for every attack on Gaza civilians

By Mohamed Majed

GAZA CITY, Palestine (AA) - Palestinian group Hamas on Monday threatened that Israeli attacks on civilians will be met with the killing of Israeli captives in Gaza.

“Every targeting of our people who are safe in their homes without prior warning will be met with regret by the execution of one of our enemy’s civilian hostages, and we will broadcast this with audio and video,” Abu Ubaida, spokesman of Hamas’ military wing Izzeddin al-Qassam Brigades, said in a speech, according to Al Jazeera media.

"We announce this decision to hold the Zionist enemy and its leadership responsible for this decision before the world,” he added.

Earlier on Monday, Israeli Army Radio said that “Israel has decided to continue attacks on the Gaza Strip, even if that means harming its prisoners” held by Hamas

The number of Israeli captives is estimated at more than 100, according to Israeli Channel 12.

Gaza-based resistance group Hamas launched Operation Al-Aqsa Flood against Israel early on Saturday, firing a barrage of rockets. It said the surprise attack was in response to the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem and growing settler violence.

In retaliation, the Israeli army launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

At least 900 Israelis have been killed and over 2,616 wounded since Saturday while 560 Palestinians have been killed and over 2,900 injured.

*Writing by Mahmoud Barakat