The spokesperson for Hamas’s military wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, Abu Ubaida, has reiterated the group’s stance, asserting that they will not engage in negotiations regarding captive issues while hostilities persist.
This statement follows the earlier declaration by the al-Qassam Brigades that they would “execute” one Israeli captive for each Israeli air attack conducted on a civilian building without prior warning.
Abu Ubaida firmly stated that the group would not be swayed by “threats and pressure” into entering negotiations during this time of ongoing hostilities. He emphasized that Israel must be prepared to “pay the price” if it seeks the return of captives.
The remarks from Abu Ubaida underscore the challenges and complexities surrounding the issue of prisoners and captives within the context of the ongoing conflict. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these dynamics may impact potential negotiations in the future.