Although the IDF has shifted its focus and military efforts to the northern front, Israel has not abandoned the southern front nor forgotten the hostages. Division 162 is still operating in the Rafah area and along the Philadelphi Route, and the IDF continues to control the Nitzarim Corridor in the center of the Gaza Strip, maintaining a buffer zone along the entire border.
Israel continues to pursue negotiations for the release of the 101 hostages still held by Hamas, but talks seem to have hit a deadlock. U.S. National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby placed the blame on Sinwar and Hamas, stating, “It appears that Sinwar has no interest or willingness to negotiate with Israel in good faith, especially after he murdered, or rather executed, six hostages in Rafah,” referring to the heart-wrenching discovery in Rafah earlier this month. “He doesn’t want to move forward, but that doesn’t mean we’re not trying.” The hope is that military pressure on Hezbollah and a show of Israeli victory on the northern front will push Sinwar towards a deal.
As for Sinwar, the Hamas leader has recently been described as “off the grid,” with no signs of life or messages from him for an extended period. Rumors of his death have begun to spread, prompting the IDF to investigate, though it has stated upfront that the chances are low, as no recent Israeli strikes have targeted his presumed locations. The IDF continues its intelligence efforts to locate and eliminate Sinwar, a particularly challenging task due to his habit of frequently changing locations and avoiding all forms of electronic communication.
Yesterday (Sunday), in a Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee meeting, Prime Minister Netanyahu revealed that according to Israeli estimates, half of the hostages held by Hamas are still alive. It should be noted that Hamas is holding 101 hostages, of whom 35 have been confirmed dead by the IDF. According to Netanyahu’s estimates, at least 75% of the remaining hostages are alive—an encouraging figure, much better than the various rumors that have circulated in recent months.
