Isreal

An Israeli military investigation has determined that their ground operations in Rafah likely influenced Hamas's decision to kill six hostages. The military report states that while their advance was "gradual and cautious," it had a "circumstantial influence" on the hostages' deaths. The investigation revealed that Israeli forces were unaware of the hostages' presence when they began operations in the area. The bodies were later discovered in an underground shaft in Rafah's Tal al-Sultan neighborhood, with military officials indicating the hostages were killed shortly before troops reached their location. The military's chief of staff characterized the incident as "a painful and tragic event" resulting in "the brutal murder of six hostages by Hamas." In response, The Hostages and Missing Families Forum stated that the investigation reinforces the need for a negotiated settlement to secure the return of all captives. The incident […]